[SEO-Members] Former State Library Board President Alan Hall Passes

[marshams at library.ohio.gov]

[cid:image004.jpg at 01DC26FA.B0E52900]It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Alan Hall, a lifelong champion of libraries and a beloved figure in Ohio's library community.

Alan served as a distinguished member of the State Library Board from January 2019 to December 2022, including leadership roles as Vice-President in 2021 and President in 2022. His career spanned over five decades, with service at the Washington County Public Library, Delphos Public Library, and the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County, where he dedicated 35 years of his professional life as Director. In 1989, he was named Librarian of the Year by the Ohio Library Association (now Ohio Library Council), a testament to his passion and dedication to the profession.

Alan was a tireless advocate for libraries, coordinating library levy campaigns, managing library automation systems, and overseeing the construction and renovation of six library buildings and a bookmobile. His leadership and mentorship inspired generations of library professionals. His advocacy also extended to guiding the State Library of Ohio through a period of significant change, including navigating budget challenges, overseeing a search for a new Executive Director, and supporting staff and fellow board members during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The State Library of Ohio's board and staff are deeply saddened by the passing of Alan Hall, our esteemed former board member," expressed State Library of Ohio Board President Drew Wichterman. "His dedication, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to library services left a lasting impact on all Ohioans and especially those who had the privilege to work alongside him. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations."

Throughout his career, Alan was instrumental in fostering collaboration across different types of libraries, supporting innovation, and ensuring that libraries remained adaptable in the face of evolving community needs.

In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Alan was honored as the 2019 Ohio Library Council Hall of Fame Librarian. His commitment to lifelong learning, public service, and library excellence will leave a lasting legacy in the state of Ohio.

"Alan Hall's legacy lives on in his good works," reflected State Librarian Mandy Knapp. "Under his leadership and guidance, Ohio libraries are better, and Ohio is a better place to live."

Alan leaves behind his wife, son, and two grandchildren. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, vision, and his profound impact on the library profession and the countless lives he touched.

We are forever grateful for Alan Hall's service to the State Library of Ohio, Ohio's libraries and ultimately all Ohioans.

Read Alan Hall's obituary and funeral information<https://shorac.com/obituaries/alan-c-hall/>.

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Marsha McDevitt-Stredney
Director, Marketing & Communications
State Library of Ohio
274 E. 1st Avenue
Columbus, OH 43201
Tel: 614.644.6875
marshams at library.ohio.gov<mailto:marshams at library.ohio.gov>
library.ohio.gov<https://library.ohio.gov/>

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