City Librarian, City and County of San Francisco
100 Larkin Street, Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94102-4733
415-557-4232
lherrera@sfpl.org

Luis is an accidental librarian who came into the profession by coincidence and opportunity. He began his library journey as a librarian in the middle school he attended in El Paso, Texas and continued his adventure in Arizona and in California public libraries. In 2005, he was appointed City Librarian of San Francisco by Mayor Gavin Newsom. As City Librarian, he manages one of the nation’s best supported public library systems which include a Main Library and 27 neighborhood branches. Currently, SFPL is in the midst of the largest capital improvement program in its history and is experiencing an unprecedented increase in library hours and use. Prior to his tenure in San Francisco, Luis served as library director in Pasadena for ten years and as deputy director at the San Diego and Long Beach Public Libraries.

Luis truly believes that libraries are core to the quality and vibrancy of community life. He also believes in the value of partnerships in engaging the community to promote and enhance the library’s role. To that end, he has been involved in professional and civic endeavors to advance his passion and commitment for libraries. One of his proudest honors is having served as the first Latino president of both the Public Library Association and the California Library Association. He is also committed to services to underserved communities and is past president of REFORMA, the National Association to Promote Services to Latinos and the Spanish Speaking. He currently serves on the boards of the Latino Community Foundation and the California Council for the Humanities.

His wife Nancy is also a public librarian having career transitioned from work in the public sector and non-profit world. Her transition was due in part to her realization that the library community is one that values collaboration and community building. They are the proud guardians of three four- legged children – Lucy, Sofi and Teddy and enjoy pampering their canine friends through hikes, neighborhood walks and lots of treats!

Luis is happy to be participating in the Eureka Institute. He has a strong passion for leadership development as demonstrated by his involvement in PLA’s leadership development task force since its inception and in supporting SFPL’s own leadership academy which is creating a culture of change in the library. He’s also very proud that two of SFPL’s own – Trent Garcia and Christina Moretta are participating in Eureka and looks forward to continued personal and professional growth through this experience.