Hildreth told American Libraries in May that she was in something of a pickle over the Tucson job, since she had expressed interest in the state librarian post but did not want to lose out on the appealing Tucson opportunity if no offer was forthcoming from the governor’s office.
In his announcement, Schwarzenegger said Hildreth “shares my commitment to education and to preserving our state’s rich cultural heritage, and I know she will use her tremendous experience as a librarian to enhance and strengthen California’s public libraries.” The San Francisco Chronicle reported July 15 that Hildreth, “a Democrat,” will earn $123,708 in her new post. She replaces Kevin Starr, who retired after 10 years in the position.
Paul Underwood, who has been appointed acting city librarian at SFPL, said, “It isn’t every day that this type of opportunity comes across your desk. The library applauds the governor for his recognition of Susan’s extraordinary skills that will no doubt benefit the entire state of California.”
Posted July 16, 2004.