On April 20, Governor Kathleen Sebelius announced the retirement of State Librarian Christie P. Brandau effective June 1, 2009. The State Library staff will host a retirement reception on Wednesday, May 27 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the State Library. An on-line guest book is available at: http://tinyurl.com/best-wishes-Christie
“I am proud of my career as a librarian and I marvel at the variety of work I have enjoyed,” said Brandau. “The State Library of Kansas has a shining future ahead. We have implemented new programs, and laid the groundwork for fulfilling a 21st century mission for providing library service for Kansans.”
Brandau has served as the State Librarian of Kansas since 2005. Previously, she was State Librarian of Michigan, and before that, served in public and system libraries and the State Library in Iowa. She retires after 35 years in the profession.
As State Librarian, Brandau promoted the implementation of new services such as: HomeworkKansas, an internet-based tutoring program available to all Kansans;
Audiobooks Music and More, a statewide downloadable audiobooks program; and staffing of the State Data Center, which provides statistical information for businesses and individuals.
In addition, Brandau initiated the development of a library administrators and trustees certification program to improve the quality of local library service. The Kansas Center for the Book became a division of the State Library through her efforts, and she initiated successful programs such as Kansas Reads to Preschoolers and the Kansas Notable Books List. Brandau also spearheaded a statewide investment to connect public libraries for high definition video conferencing and partnered with Kan-ed to enhance access to broadband internet for libraries.
State Library Deputy Director Marc Galbraith will serve as head of the agency during the interim. Galbraith has served as Deputy Director of the State Library for nearly five years, and was Director of Public Services prior to becoming Deputy Director.