After nearly two decades of dedicated service to the San Antonio community, Ramiro S. Salazar, the Director of the San Antonio Public Library (SAPL), has announced his retirement. His last day in office is scheduled for March 1, 2024.
City Manager Erik Walsh expressed gratitude for Salazar's significant contributions, praising his commitment to fostering literacy, education, and a love for learning among residents. Salazar has been at the helm of SAPL for 19 years, managing a team of over 550 employees and overseeing the growth of the library system from 20 to 30 locations.
Reflecting on his career, Salazar highlighted his commitment to making libraries more accessible, citing the incorporation of digital resources and the ongoing renovation projects, including the transformative $12.5 million renovation of the Carver Branch Library.
Salazar's accomplishments include the expansion of SAPL and an increase in the operating budget from $20.8 million in 2005 to $53.5 million today. In 2017, he collaborated with the San Antonio Public Library Foundation to establish the Latino Collection and Resource Center, a cultural and education resource celebrating Latino heritage.
Juspreet Kaur, SAPL Board Chair, commended Salazar as the standard-bearer of public service and servant leadership, expressing gratitude for his lasting contributions to the library and the community. Salazar, who previously served as Director of the Dallas and El Paso Public Libraries, will leave a lasting legacy as the Library Board and the City of San Antonio embark on a search for a new Director through both internal and external applicants.
Before his departure, an interim Library Director will be appointed, ensuring a smooth transition as the San Antonio Public Library looks toward a bright future under new leadership.
