Alameda City Manager Jennifer Ott has appointed Michael Eitner to serve as the new Director of the Alameda Free Library. Eitner joins the City of Alameda after serving in management positions at the Denver Public Library, Santa Clara County Library District, and most recently as the Assistant Director of the Solano County Library. His background also includes legal experience and leadership in the California Library Association’s Advocacy & Legislative Committee.
“Michael brings extensive experience managing innovative projects and initiatives,” Ott said. “I’m excited for his leadership and ideas on how the Alameda Free Library can continue its broad range of programming and services, increase staff engagement, and expand to serve even more Alameda residents.”
The Alameda Free Library is a critical City service with three branches and extensive online resources. The Library Department includes 22 full-time and 40 part-time staff, along with volunteers, serving more than 30,000 people each year with an annual budget of $6 million including grants and donations. The Library Director reports to the Assistant City Manager and works closely with all members of the City’s executive team
“Libraries are community hubs, and I am excited to work in partnership with the Alameda Free Library team and our partners to enhance the library user’s experience for all residents and expand how the community engages with our libraries,” Eitner said.
The City offered thanks to Marlon Romero, Interim Library Director, for serving in this role following the retirement of longtime Library Director Jane Chisaki after 39 years of service to Alameda.