PUEBLO, Colo. — The Pueblo Library Board of Trustees named Sherri Baca as the new executive director and librarian for the Pueblo City-County Library District (PCCLD) by a unanimous vote. She takes over the position on October 1 after the retirement of long-time director Jon Walker.
Baca has spent seven years with the library district, most recently serving as the associate executive director. She previously served as the district’s chief financial officer and human resources manager. Baca also served as a library trustee. She is the first Hispanic woman to serve in the role.
“This is a dream job for me. I am so happy and thankful to take on this new role and I am excited to work with the library trustees, library employees and our community partners as we work to serve our community. Pueblo loves its public library, we are proud of that relationship and we will work hard to provide exceptional library facilities, materials and programs,” Baca said.
Baca holds a master’s degree in library science from the University of Kentucky as well as a master of business administration from Colorado State University Pueblo. She previously served as the executive director for El Pueblo Boys and Girls Ranch and Roselawn Cemetery & Funeral Home.
Library board of trustees President Fredrick Quintana said, “The process of selecting PCCLD's next executive director was thorough, ensuring the best effort was made to select a leader who is highly qualified; steadfast and dedicated; committed to the continued success and growth of our libraries and community; a stalwart defender of open access to information and continued education; and who will be a leader committed to engaging with and empowering our amazing PCCLD team members. This board is confident in the selection of Sherri Baca and looks forward to the future of library services in our community. Baca holds a steady but unique vision for the future of our library and an unwavering commitment to the long-term success of our community."
Walker, who retired September 30, served nearly 19 years as the district’s director, beginning shortly after the completion of the Robert Hoag Rawlings Public Library in 2004. During his tenure he oversaw the addition of three new libraries, championed the successful passing of Ballot Measure 6B in 2018, and elevated the library district to achieve state and national recognition. In 2018 alone, the district received the Institute of Museum and Library Services National Medal, was named Colorado Library of the Year and won the Engaging Local Government Leaders Lesley B. Knope award as the Best Public Library in America.
A retirement party for Walker will take place at 5:30 p.m. in the Heroes Pavilion at the Pueblo Convention Center, 320 Central Main St. Food, wine, beer and refreshments will be provided. To RSVP, call Rose at (719) 562-5633 or go online to www.pueblolibrary.org/retirementparty by October 21 .
PCCLD is dedicated to serving as a foundation for the Pueblo community by offering welcoming, well equipped and maintained facilities, outstanding collections, and well-trained employees who provide expert service encouraging the joy of reading, supporting lifelong learning and presenting access to information from around the world.