Sacramento Public Library Authority Chair Announces New Library Director; Elk Grove Library to Relocate

Sacramento Public Library Chair, Eric Guerra formally introduced Peter Coyl as the new Director and Chief Executive Officer. The Sacramento City Council confirmed Coyl’s appointment on January 11. With his appointment, he will lead California’s fourth largest library system with 28 locations throughout Sacramento County.

“We searched far and wide, local and afar, and we found a great candidate with Peter. He comes to us with a breadth of experience not only in his understanding of how public libraries operate – but how libraries are places to transform, and provide opportunities for communities as well.”

– Eric Guerra, Sacramento Public Library Authority Chair

Background and Experience

Coyl,41, was born in Santa Clara. He relocated to Sacramento where he earned his first library card from the Sacramento Public Library at age 5.

Coyl has over 20 years of library experience, from local to international library service. He recently served as Director of the Montclair Public Library in New Jersey. Additionally, he is the Vice President of the, “Freedom to Read Foundation,” and a member of the, “Public Library Association: Task Force on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice.”

“It is an honor to join the Sacramento Public Library and continue to build upon the work the staff and board members do to make the Sacramento Public Library a destination of opportunity for the community”

– Peter Coyl, Sacramento Public Library Director and CEO

A search for a new Director in August 2021 after Rivka Sass, who served for 12 years, announced she was retiring at the end of 2021. Sass is credited with revitalizing the Sacramento Library into one of the most distinguished library systems in the nation.

Elk Grove Library Relocation Update

In early 2021, the City of Elk Grove purchased the former Rite Aid building located at 9260 Elk Grove Boulevard. The city quickly outgrew its 8900 Elk Grove Boulevard location that was constructed in 2006. It is currently in the planning and design phase between the City of Elk Grove and the Sacramento Public Library, which Coyl will oversee.

“We are excited to welcome Peter as the new Sacramento Public Library Director. We are eager to welcome him to our city and receive his input for our Elk Grove Library relocation project.”

– Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen

The City of Elk Grove, and Sacramento Public Library welcomes community feedback on design ideas. For more information CLICK HERE