Valerie Sommer serves as the Director of the South San Francisco Public Library. She holds an M.L.S. from Columbia University and earned her B.A. in English Literature and European History from Syracuse University. Valerie began her career in libraries in the corporate sector, establishing and managing a systems library for American Express Company in New York City. Her journey then took her to Paris, France, where she immersed herself in the city's culture while freelancing as a librarian.
Upon returning to the United States, Valerie settled in San Francisco, joining the San Francisco Public Library before transferring to South San Francisco Public Library. She initially managed the Grand Avenue Library Branch and later led Reference Services at the Main Library before being appointed Library Director in June 1996.
Valerie's tenure as Director has been marked by numerous achievements, including overseeing the 1997 seismic upgrade and the 2016 expansion of the Grand Avenue Library. She has also been instrumental in the building design as well as planning and implementation of Gene Mullin Community Learning Center programs and services. Valerie guided the library through several upgrades to the Peninsula Library System Network infrastructure, equipment and online services and spearheaded initiatives such as the automated materials handling system, introduction of e-book circulation, and the integration of STEM programming and Makerspaces into library services.
A highlight of Valerie's recent efforts includes collaborating with city and library teams to realize the vision of a New Main Library, which opened as a joint use facility with Parks and Recreation on October 28, 2023. Under her leadership, the South San Francisco Public Library continues to provide innovative, accessible and engaging programs and services. Valerie is passionate about recommending "good reads" and, as an enthusiastic E-audiobook listener, now shares her recommendations for "good listens" as well. She emphasizes the library's commitment to fostering a love of reading and learning within the community as technology evolves and expands their offerings.