The Berkeley Central Library is seen in a 2020 file photo. Photo: Pete Rosos
The Board of Library Trustees appointed Rebecca Alcala-Veraflor, a veteran of San Francisco’s public library system, as the new leader of Berkeley’s libraries at a meeting Wednesday.
Board of Library Services President Beverly Greene described Alcala-Veraflor in a statement as someone who has “built a reputation as a collaborative leader who empowers staff, strengthens connections with residents, and ensures libraries remain welcoming spaces.” The board voted unanimously to appoint her director of library services.
“Rebecca Alcala-Veraflor will build on the library’s strong tradition of outstanding public service, while supporting our dedicated staff and inspiring new opportunities for innovation, partnership, and community engagement,” Greene said.
Alcala-Veraflor, who was not present during the meeting, will begin her new role on Aug. 16. Her annual salary will be $250,000, and she will receive a one-time signing bonus of $5,000.
Berkeley’s Board of Library Trustees unanimously voted to appoint Rebecca Alcala-Veraflor the city’s next director of library services. Credit: Hope Muñoz/Berkeleyside
The new director has 20 years of experience in the public library sector, with early stints in Alameda and San Mateo counties. She then spent almost 15 years at the San Francisco Public Library, where she advanced from librarian to chief of branches, a position she has held since 2022 leading a 27-branch system and about 400 staff members.
Alcala-Veraflor received a bachelor’s degree in ethnic studies from UC Berkeley and a master’s degree in library and information science from San Jose State University.
“I’m extremely excited to have Rebecca on board,” library board and Councilmember Shoshana O’Keefe said. “She has amazing local experience and local ties. She really impressed me.”
Alcala-Veraflor succeeds the five-year term of Director Tess Mayer, who was followed by interim library Director Henry Bankhead, who held the role for about a year. Bankhead faced criticism from a union that represents librarians and staff in April, including allegations that he cultivated a toxic work environment, fostered unsafe working conditions, picked favorites and retaliated against workers.
Wednesday’s 10-minute library board meeting included no comments from Bankhead, the union or the public. But Greene briefly thanked Bankhead for his work.
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