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Pratt Library to Launch National Search for CEO

Heidi Daniel Departs for King County Library after Seven Successful Years

December 19, 2023

BALTIMORE – After seven years at the helm of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, President and CEO Heidi Daniel will step down to become CEO of the King County Public Library in Washington state, one of the largest circulating library systems in the United States with 50 branches and more than 900 employees. “Leading the Enoch Pratt Free Library system for the last seven years has been a humbling, fulfilling, and joyful experience. The people of Baltimore have made me feel at home, and have a deep and profound connection to their Library. I am proud of all that we accomplished together,” says Daniel. Daniel will leave Baltimore at the end of February. Darcell Graham, the Pratt’s Vice President of Public Services, will serve as the Interim Chief Executive Officer, ensuring a seamless transition in leadership over the coming months as the Pratt undertakes a national search for a new permanent CEO in the new year.

Under Daniel’s leadership, the Pratt became one of the first fine-free public libraries on the East Coast. Daniel also oversaw the completion of the Central Library renovation, and helped spearhead plans for a new Park Heights Library, the Pratt’s first new building in more than 15 years. She helped launch the library’s Office of Equity and Fair Practices, steered the organization through the start of the unionization process, led new and innovative public service strategies through the historic COVID-19 pandemic, and kickstarted a new Master Facilities Plan for the system that will help ensure the library’s ability to serve generations to come. Her vision has resulted in enhanced engagement and connection with the Pratt. In Fiscal Year 2023, the library had the highest circulation in 12 years, a record number of active cardholders, and the highest number of new cardholders in 7 years. Daniel was recently named one of the Daily Record’s most admired CEO’s in the region.

"Heidi Daniel has been a visionary leader, continuing the tradition of excellence set by the Pratt and innovating to establish new library initiatives,” says Christine Espenshade, Board Chair of Pratt Library. “Her work to increase access and opportunities for engagement at the Pratt has made an incredibly positive impact in Baltimore's communities and in the State of Maryland. We are sad to see her go and thank her for her stewardship. We look forward to continuing to serve the public and building on the spirit of innovation that has characterized the Pratt's vision and work for many years. The Pratt Library Board will conduct a national search for a permanent CEO, with more details to be shared in the new year."

Darcell Graham, the Pratt’s new Interim Chief Executive Officer, joined the Pratt in 1998 and has worked across nearly all public divisions of the system, including Neighborhood Library Services, the State Library Resource Center, and Collection & Access Services. As Vice President of Public Services Graham oversees nearly 300 public service employees. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Baltimore and a Masters in Library & Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh. In 2022, Graham was named Family Champion of the Year by the Baltimore Family Alliance for her work in Baltimore City communities. “The Pratt Library has been my home for more than 25 years, and it’s an honor to be selected to serve in this new role,” says Graham. “Heidi leaves this historic library system in a strong and stable position. I am confident that our Executive Administrative team will be able to seamlessly continue the Pratt’s important work.” Daniel adds, “As I exit, I am confident in the leadership of Darcell Graham and the entire Pratt team. I know this national jewel of a Public Library will attract an exciting new leader. I am also proud that it is well-positioned to continue its commitments to the City of Baltimore and State of Maryland.”

In the upcoming year, the Pratt will use an historic investment of American Rescue Plan funding to improve infrastructure across multiple branches, including HVAC upgrades. Indoor and outdoor computer spaces will be redesigned at several locations. A groundbreaking is expected on a new Park Heights Library location and final design work is underway for a library in the Johnston Square community. Redevelopment work continues on the Washington Village branch, doubling the size of that location and co-locating with apartment units. Construction will begin on the new Pratt Free Market, a free grocery store inside the Southeast Anchor Library. Productive collective bargaining negotiations will continue with Pratt Workers United and a new 5-year strategic plan for the organization will be rolled out in 2024.

The Enoch Pratt Free Library is one of the nation’s first free library systems, opening its doors in 1886 thanks to the generosity of businessman Enoch Pratt. Today’s Pratt Library -–Baltimore’s public library and the Maryland State Library Resource Center—consists of the Central Library, 21 neighborhood locations, and three mobile units. The Library’s mission is to empower, enrich, and enhance the quality of life for all through equitable access to information, services, and opportunity.