Library Announces Next CEO

February 8, 2021

An Important Library Announcement from Jennifer Green, Library Foundation Board of Directors Chair

It is with a great deal of excitement that I can announce the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Board of Trustees has selected its next CEO and Chief Librarian – Marcellus “MT” Turner. MT will assume his role on April 1, 2021. Lee Keesler remains on as CEO until his retirement on March 31.

Marcellus “MT” Turner

I had the pleasure of serving on the search committee, which began our nationwide activities last June following Lee’s retirement announcement. The Library Board of Trustees unanimously approved this appointment, and we are excited to welcome MT to Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

MT comes to us with more than 30 years of experience. Most recently he was with The Seattle Public Library for 10 years, where he led and managed a system of 27 libraries, including the world-renowned and iconic Central Library, a staff of 679 and more than 500 volunteers. Under MT’s guidance, The Seattle Public Library was named 2020 Library of the Year by Gale/Library Journal. He brings comprehensive experience at every level of system, program and community engagement management of public libraries, having also spent time at Jefferson County Public Library, Rockford Public Library, Tacoma Public Library, Atlantic City Free Public Library and East Tennessee State University.

In addition to leading the Library’s essential mission, MT will assume responsibilities for several important initiatives at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library including:

activating the Blueprint 2025 Vision Plan
advancing the Library’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion; and
supporting the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation’s continued fundraising while working with County leadership, architects and builders to realize the completion of the new $100 million, 115,000-square-foot Main Library.

As we move into the transition phase, we’ll learn more of MT when he comes into the role in April and look forward to engaging with him on Foundation activities.

I want to thank you for supporting both Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and our Foundation as they are such incredible resources for our community.

Warmly,