Austin Public Libraries: A Century of Stories and We're Just Getting Started

Join the Austin Public Library as we celebrate our past and look boldly toward the future. "A Century of Stories - And We're Just Getting Started" will showcase the library's rich history, evolving services, community impact, and the powerful role of collaboration. Discover how partnerships will help shape the next 100 years of innovation, access, and opportunity. Let's write the next chapter together. 

About our Speaker: 

Hannah Terrell is a public library executive with more than two decades of experience leading library services in both large urban systems and rural communities. In December 2025 Hannah Terrell was selected as the permanent Director of Libraries for the Austin Public Library where she oversees a team of more than 460 employees, manages a department budget of almost $80 million, and advances the library's strategic vision and mission for a rapidly growing and diverse city. Hannah has positioned APL as a national and international destination, hosting delegations from the Netherlands and Egypt, welcoming the American Library Association's National President, and leading NASA House during SXSW 2025-the largest event in the library's history.

Hannah’s strong partnership commitment efforts and superior communication skills have resulted in strengthened bonds and sustained relationships with the Library Foundation and Austin History Center Association. Hannah has served in various leadership roles with the Texas Library Association, a member of the Texas Book Festival Board of Advisors, member of the American Library Association, Public Library Association, and Urban Libraries Council organizations.

Hannah holds a Master of Library Science from North Carolina Central University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Administration from the University of Detroit Mercy. Hannah remains actively engaged in professional associations and leadership programs, bringing a thoughtful, forward-thinking, and community-centered approach to shaping the future of public libraries.