Abraham King, Branch Manager
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(435) 301-7630
Biography
What We Do
We provide open, non-judgmental access to collections and services without regard to race, citizenship, age, educational level, economic status, religion, or any other qualifications or conditions. The library is to serve the total community by providing free and open access to the ideas and information available on all subjects and in all formats. We select and make available materials for the enlightenment, cultural enrichment and enjoyment of its public of all ages, levels of abilities and interest. Also, we advocate and support the First Amendment Rights and the Library Bill of Rights, and protect library materials from censorship.
Mission Statement
The Washington County Library System provides staff, collections, physical and virtual spaces that promote ideas, inspire lifelong learning, and strengthen communities. Our objectives are:
- Provide collections and services to meet community needs and interests
- Promote the Washington County Library System, the Utah State Library, and all library services available in the state
- Promote the awareness and use of library resources, services, and programs
- Develop and maintain working relationships with other libraries and with cultural, educational, social, and informational agencies
- Attract and develop a high-quality staff with special skills, knowledge, and abilities to help library users
- Create an environment which motivates staff to achieve high levels of performance, productivity, and professional development
- Exercise prudence in the utilization of human, financial, and physical resources
- Utilize appropriate technologies to maintain and improve library operations and services
- Provide and maintain clean, open, and welcoming facilities
Biography
Abe was hired in April 2011 as the Branch Manager for the Santa Clara Library Branch. He has a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. He studied Political Science with a concentration in Public Administration at California State University, Fullerton, and also has a Bachelor’s degree in Public and Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.
Before moving to St. George, Utah, Abe worked at the Feleti Barstow Public Library in American Samoa for nine years. He started there as the Children’s Librarian, eventually becoming the Public Relations person, and eventually the Public Services Coordinator and Assistant Director.
People say he’s doing it all backwards; everyone is trying to move to an island paradise, but not leave an island paradise to move to the desert. Himself, his wife and his 4 year old daughter love it here in St. George. The people are so open and friendly. There is so much to do and see here in Southern Utah.
For him working for the Washington County Library System is as challenging as it is rewarding. He has had the opportunity to work alongside amazing people dedicated to librarianship and serving the community. Contrary to popular belief, libraries are not just about books. Libraries are about something deeper. We are about information, access to knowledge, about providing a public gathering place where the community can interact with each other, all within the context of an exchange of knowledge… and the occasional exchange of a book or two.