Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone has announced that current Deputy Director of Libraries, Cathy Piantigini, has been appointed as the city’s newest Library Director, effective December 3, 2018. Piantigini has worked in the Somerville Public Libraries in various roles for 25 years, beginning as a Junior Assistant at the East Branch Library in 1993.

Piantigini succeeds Glenn Ferdman as Library Director. “Cathy’s service to the City of Somerville and our residents, her dedication to our libraries and our community, and her progressive thinking and achievement record all speak for themselves as to why she is the perfect candidate for this position,” said Mayor Curtatone. “There are some exciting projects on the horizon for our libraries, and I am excited to work with Cathy on all of these endeavors and more.”

“I am honored to continue to serve the city I was born and raised in, and the city I proudly call home. The Somerville Public Library, its staff and its patrons are extremely valuable and important to me, and I look forward to stepping into this new role that will allow me to continue working in this incredible community,” said Piantigini.

As Deputy Director, Piantigini was essential in advancing the Library’s goals, and expanding programming and outreach. During her two-year tenure as Deputy, the Library established four new positions, including the addition of a Literacy/Volunteer Coordinator and a Health Services Coordinator; overhauled the library’s social media presence, which resulted in both local and national reach; and played a pivotal role in planning for the renovation of the West Branch Library, which is set to begin this winter following a robust community process which Piantigini helped spearhead.

Piantigini’s extensive history with the Somerville Public Library also includes service as the Reference Librarian, Community Services Librarian, Young Adult Librarian, and Head of Youth Services.

— City of Somerville