City of Alameda Names Mary Abler as New Library Director
Published on July 09, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Alameda Names Mary Abler as New Library Director
The City of Alameda is excited to announce the appointment of Mary Abler as its new Library Director. Starting August 3rd, Abler will lead the Alameda Free Library and continue advancing its mission to foster individual and community enrichment, resourcefulness, and connection through welcoming, knowledgeable staff, and easily accessible collections, facilities, and virtual spaces.
Abler will oversee implementation of the 2026-30 Library Strategic Plan, including key opportunities to grow the Library of Things and expand services to Alameda Point. She will also collaborate and sustain strong partnerships with the Friends of Alameda Free Library, community organizations, stakeholders, the school district, and other agencies. Additionally, the Director manages the Alameda Museum agreement with the City and supports the City Council-appointed Library Board.
The Alameda Free Library serves as a cornerstone of community life which welcomed more than 215,000 visitors last year, including over 44,000 who attended a program. Together, patrons checked out nearly 760,000 items.
A Proven and Innovative Leader
Abler currently serves as Deputy Director of Library Services for San Mateo County Libraries, where she leads public service strategy and systemwide operations across 13 libraries. She brings 20 years of library experience from diverse institutions across the country, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, New Orleans, and Vancouver, WA. Her post-graduate career began in the Innovation Leadership Program at Los Angeles Public Library, where she demonstrated how a library can serve its community and exemplify the very best it has to offer.
“This is an exciting time for the Alameda Free Library. The new Strategic Plan challenges us to expand access, strengthen our collections, and build a library that feels like it belongs to everyone in Alameda,” said Abler. “I'm honored that the City has chosen me to lead the strong library team already in place and I can't wait to get started.”
City Manager Gerry Beaudin echoed that enthusiasm, noting that "The library holds a special place with Alameda residents and is a critical service and community hub with a tradition of excellence and embracing innovation through its three branches and extensive online resources. We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to Mary Abler as our new Library Director," he stated. "Mary is an innovative library leader who will facilitate an environment where our community belongs and thrives."
Learn More
As the City welcomes its new Library Director, residents are invited to visit AlamedaFree.org to explore upcoming programs, events, and services.