A New CEO For The Library

Richard AmRhein Joins Prince George’s County Memorial Library System As Interim CEO

The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) has hired Richard AmRhein as the Interim Chief Executive Officer. PGCMLS helps customers discover and define opportunities that shape their lives. It serves the 967,000+ residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland through 19 branch libraries, a 24/7 online library, the County Correctional Center Library, and pop-up services throughout the community. It is a responsive and trusted community-driven organization, making Richard AmRhein a fitting addition who has come into the system to oversee the day-to-day operations and assess the organization’s current structure and future sustainability.

“I am very glad to be here and look forward to working closely with PGCMLS staff,” said AmRhein. “Since 2021, I’ve worked with the Board of Library Trustees to help them review PGCMLS’ organizational structure and help plan for the future. In this interim role, I’m honored to now take an active part in providing momentum to cement those plans to the benefit of the citizens of Prince George’s County.”

AmRhein has worked in library administration for more than thirty years. He has brought innovative thinking and vision to integrating information services and technology into services and functions across multiple units. In 1999, Valparaiso University hired him as Dean of Library Services, and he served for eleven years until he was appointed Chief Information Officer and Chief of Staff for the Office of the President in 2010.

Last week, Richard AmRhein began his interim term leading PGCMLS. The appointment by the Board of Library Trustees follows the closing of the initial Chief Executive Officer search, which began in January 2023 and was conducted by the search firm Bradbury Miller Associates. During his time in the interim position, the board will renew its efforts and search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

“We are pleased to have Rick on board to guide our library system over the next several months, allowing our executive leadership to focus on their roles and prepare for the opening of three branches in Prince George’s County, and the Board to fulfill its commitment to hire a permanent CEO,” shared Board of Library Trustees President, Angela Smith. More about PGCMLS can be learned at pgcmls.info/about-us.