Introducing Our New Executive Director
When Merris Sumrall announced her retirement, our trustees knew it would be challenging to find the right leader for the next phase of The Library Foundation’s growth. Merris’ strategic insight, vision and passion for our organization over the last 21 years has transformed our work and Multnomah County Library’s place, and impact, in our community.
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Led by a Search Committee of the Board, we conducted a thorough and thoughtful process to find The Library Foundation’s new leader. We were overwhelmed by the pool of qualified candidates interested in the position. After careful consideration, we are pleased to announce that we have selected Love Centerwall as The Library Foundation’s next Executive Director.
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Love (pronounced Lew-vah in Swedish) is an experienced leader with a strong track record of success in our community. Born in Stockholm and educated in Sweden, Denmark and Spain, Love grew up in a family of readers, writers, and educators with a strong belief in the power of public libraries and early learning. Early in his career, he spent five years working with nonprofit entities in New York City and nine years in management positions at the Stockholm School of Economics. In 2013, he and his young family moved to Portland. For the last seven years, Love has served as OMSI’s Vice President of Development. His deep-rooted commitment to equity in education and his dedication to collaborative, community centered development has shaped his work and the work of his team at OMSI. Love has the leadership skills, insight and life experience The Library Foundation needs at this pivotal time. We are thrilled that he is joining us.
Multnomah County Library has never been more important for the future of our community. Today, our libraries are undergoing a transformational change that will be vitally important for our future. As we celebrate Merris’ lasting legacy, we are looking forward to all that is ahead for The Library Foundation and Multnomah County Library. Love joins The Library Foundation’s team Monday, February 26, 2024.
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Thank you for your support for our libraries and your belief in the importance of The Library Foundation’s work.
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Brad Thies, Board Chair
The Library Foundation
