New Seattle library head: Susan Hildreth of California

The Seattle Public Library board of trustees has selected Susan Hildreth, most recently of library systems in California, to head Seattle's library system.

Hildreth, 57, is currently the California state librarian. Before that, she headed the San Francisco library system.

After having a more bureaucratic role in the state job, she said she is excited for the opportunity in Seattle to see the difference libraries are making in people's lives.

"The great thing about Susan is this unusual combination of deep experience and an openness to new ideas," said board of trustees President Eric Liu. He said he was impressed by Hildreth's "demeanor, which is calm, cool and collected."

He also mentioned, "her ability to listen when she is being asked a question and really connect the dots before attempting to answer."

Hildreth had good rapport with library staff members and a good sense of humor, Liu said.

Hildreth was selected from three finalists.

The previous library director, Deborah Jacobs, left in July to take a position with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The new librarian will oversee Seattle's downtown library, 26 neighborhood branches, plus a bookmobile. She will lead a staff of 710 and manage a budget of more than $50 million.

Emily Heffter: 206-464-8246 or eheffter@seattletimes.com