LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Orinda library welcomes new interim manager


Michael Beller Photo Sora O'Doherty

Michael Beller, the new interim Orinda library manager, was warmly welcomed at the Mayor's Liaison Meeting on Oct. 8. Beller, who was resplendent in a colorful striped shirt and bow tie, was all smiles as he greeted the assembled representatives of Orinda's community groups. He announced that he loves cooperation, collaboration and programming, and is eager to work with the local community. He feels quite connected, he said, as his wife is a graduate of Glorietta Elementary School and Miramonte High School and his in-laws are Orinda residents.

Beller comes to Orinda from Walnut Creek's Ygnacio Valley Library, where he held the top job for two years. Prior to that, he spent nearly 15 years at Mills College, where he directed library services with such superlative excellence and joy that colleagues nominated him for a New York Times "I Love My Librarian" Award, which he won. According to the Friends of Orinda Library, Beller brings vision and creative programming ideas to Orinda. Beller stepped in to fill the post vacated by Sierra Campagna, who left this summer for a job in Alameda, closer to her home. For the moment, Beller's new gig is an interim posting, but his plan is to stay, and the Friends of the Library say, "Consider our fingers crossed!"