Elizabeth Saucedo, a familiar face in the Goleta Library Zone System, has been promoted to city librarian.
Saucedo had been the supervising librarian for the system, which includes the Goleta Valley Library, Solvang and Buellton branches, and the Book Van, and represents Goleta in the Black Gold Cooperative Library System.
“Elizabeth is the perfect choice for this position,” said Jaime Valdez, Goleta’s neighborhood services director. “She possesses a unique combination of expertise and experience with our treasured library, is highly respected by our wonderful staff, and has a deep commitment to providing excellent customer service to our patrons.”
Saucedo, who officially starts her new job on Feb. 24, said she is honored to have been selected.
“Libraries play an essential role in their communities by bringing people together and connecting them with important resources that enrich their lives,” she said.
“The opportunity to lead the fantastic team at the Goleta & Santa Ynez Valley Libraries in providing these programs and services to our valued patrons is an incredible honor,” she said. “I look forward to this exciting next chapter.”
Saucedo has been with the Goleta Valley Library for over five years. She began as the children’s librarian in 2018, leading many of the library’s popular programs including the annual Summer Reading Program, storytimes for early learners, and classroom field trips for local schools.
In early 2022 she assumed the role of interim supervising librarian before taking over the position full-time in May 2023, where she has overseen the daily operations, staffing, and collection needs of the library.
The city librarian role is the new classification for the former library director title that was last held by Allison Gray, who retired in March 2023 after 15 years of service to the Goleta Valley Library.
Diane Satchwell, interim library director has assumed the role during the transition and will continue to stay on as executive extra help – retired annuitant to assist with the transition.