Madison Public Library Director Greg Mickells to Retire in February 2024

posted August 15, 2023 – 11:03am

MADISON, WI - After 11 years at the helm of Madison Public Library, Library Director Greg Mickells has announced his retirement, effective February 2, 2024.

“Director Mickells has shown incredible commitment to Madison Public Library and to the City of Madison, leading the library through the expansion and renovation of the Central, Meadowridge, and Pinney Libraries, and the challenge of navigating through the public health emergency to safely ensure library services during the pandemic,” said Alyssa Kenney, Library Board President. “We wish him well in his retirement and we’re committed as a Board to engaging stakeholders and the community as we seek a Library Director who will continue his legacy of achievement and advocating for the best library service for all Madison residents.”

During Director Mickells’ tenure, his work took him to three continents representing Madison Public Library in China, The Gambia, and Denmark, and to the White House where Madison Public Library was recognized with a National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2016. The Bubbler at Madison Public Library was recognized with a Wisconsin Innovation Award, and the Library was selected as a Top Innovator by Urban Libraries Council in the Race and Social Equity category. Eight staff members have been recognized as Library Movers & Shakers by Library Journal. Closer to home, the library took over the Wisconsin Book Festival in 2013 and launched the Dream Bus in 2019 in partnership with Dane County Library Service, both with the support of Madison Public Library Foundation. The library’s commitment to racial equity and social justice has resulted in dozens of community-based partnerships, and additional partnerships have expanded access to and awareness of library and city services.

“When I arrived in Madison for my interview I knew it was a special place, and in an instant I knew it would be a privilege to lead Madison Public Library. Waiting for me was a new strategic plan in place, an amazing building project underway, and a clear point of transition for the organization. It was a wonderful opportunity to have that foundation and level of engagement for a new director to bring their vision to the organization. We are in a similar place now, and I felt this would be a good time for new leadership,” said Director Mickells. “I wish continued success to Madison Public Library knowing full well that the staff and Board will continue to strive to be the best, to be leaders within our profession, and to stand for the common good in our community.”

“I am grateful for Greg's incredible leadership of our libraries over the past decade,” said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “He brought innovation, a deep sense of community, and a belief in partnerships to his work as Library Director. He helped nurture impactful library services that meet the needs of our growing and diverse city. I wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Director Mickells will remain at the Library through February 2, 2024. According to Wisconsin State Statute 43.58 (4), the Library Board has the responsibility to hire the Library Director, though it is a City of Madison position which will require approval by the Mayor and the Common Council. The Library Board has formed a working group to begin the hiring process and expects to have a hiring committee in place by September. If necessary, an Interim Director will be selected to help ensure the transition.

About Madison Public Library
Madison Public Library’s tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement has enriched the City of Madison for more than 145 years. Visit the library online at www.madisonpubliclibrary.org, madisonpubliclibrary on Facebook or @madisonpubliclibrary on Instagram.