Longtime library leader Dave Ratliff will serve as Interim Deputy Director
PORTLAND, Ore. — June 3, 2024. Former Multnomah County Library Deputy Director Annie Lewis begins a new term today as Multnomah County Library Interim Director of Libraries after the retirement of longtime Director of Libraries Vailey Oehlke. Lewis has served as deputy director since 2021.
Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson is conducting a national search for a permanent Director of Libraries.
Beginning a role with Multnomah County Library as a bilingual Spanish Youth Librarian in 2014, Lewis has served as Gresham Library Supervisor, Early Childhood Services Manager, Director of Community Services and Deputy Director. As Deputy Director, she led all the library’s public services; the Office of Project Management and Evaluation (OPME); policy staff; and served as the primary liaison to The Library Foundation.
Annie previously served as a librarian in Beaverton and Tualatin and as a Family Involvement Coordinator for Clackamas County. She holds an MLIS from the University of Washington and a B.A. from Pacific University. Annie enjoys spending time in nature.
“I am honored to serve as Interim Director of Libraries for Multnomah County Library,” Lewis said. “Our library is entering a bright new era that will bring expanded library spaces, a re-imagining of how we do our work and an unwavering commitment to centering equity in how the library serves people and communities.”
Incoming Interim Deputy Director Dave Ratliff has been with Multnomah County Library since 2004. He began his time at MCL at Central Library, working in a variety of capacities including circulation, stacks services, Interlibrary Loan, reference and more. He later served as Central Library Director and Neighborhood Libraries Director before beginning his role as Integrated Services Director. Dave also previously worked at New York Public Library, the Texas A&M library system, Portland State University Library and the Louisiana Coastal Fisheries Institute. He holds an MLIS from Louisiana State University.
A treasured community institution since 1864, Multnomah County Library is one of the nation’s busiest public library systems, providing social, educational and cultural programs, resources and services, online and through its 19 public locations. With an eye toward the future of community-centered spaces, the library is working to build, rebuild or expand nine libraries through a voter approved capital bond. In addition to being Oregon’s largest provider of free internet access, the library offers millions of print and digital resources, in multiple languages for people of all ages. From kindergarten readiness to job training, computer-assisted design and 3D printing, the library supports all people in their pursuits to connect, learn and create. Learn more at multcolib.org
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