SNOHOMISH and ISLAND COUNTIES—Sno-Isle Libraries Executive Director Lois Langer Thompson announced her intent to retire in July. After over five years of dedicated service, Lois Langer Thompson leaves behind a legacy of transformative change through her commitment to equity and dedication to creating inspiring, welcoming spaces.
“Lois exemplifies dedication and passion to shape our libraries to bring value to our communities. She has modeled for our organization what it means to lead with equity. Her impact will be felt for years to come,” said Rose Olson, president of the Sno-Isle Libraries Board of Trustees.
Lois has played a pivotal role in cultivating a thriving library community. Under her leadership, Sno-Isle Libraries has:
- embedded equity across the organization,
- built a capital strategy for our 23 community libraries,
- secured over $8.02M in state grants to support library capital projects,
- continued community leadership of the Mariner Community Campus project,
- secured $1.5M federal ARPA grant through Snohomish County to invest in digital equity,
- launched a commitment to sustainability,
- expanded the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation Board of Directors,
- strengthened community collaboration, Friends of the Libraries, and partnerships,
- and supported the formation of the first collective bargaining unit at Sno-Isle.
She also guided the organization through a pandemic, and adopted new library services including holds lockers, books by mail, Self-Service Library Hours, and online programming resulting in an increase in library usage.
“As I start my next chapter, I take pride in knowing the Library District will continue to flourish. This is a testament to the collective dedication and resilience of our incredible library staff. I will continue to be a lifelong advocate for libraries, and I am confident Sno-Isle Libraries will continue to serve the diverse needs of our communities. It has been an honor to serve you,” said Executive Director Lois Langer Thompson.
The Board of Trustees will begin a comprehensive search for a new Executive Director.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
