Gloria Coles Flint Public Library appoints new executive director

FLINT, Mich. — The Gloria Coles Flint Public Library board of trustees has tapped Desmond J. London Sr. as the library’s new executive director.

London is the first Black man to serve in the position, marking a significant milestone in the library’s 175-year history.

“I am honored to serve as Executive Director of the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library. What excites me most is the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated and talented staff while building meaningful connections across the Flint community,” London said.

London’s background includes more than a decade of leadership experience across public and academic library systems, with a strong focus on community engagement, staff development and equitable access to information and services.

Most recently, London served as assistant branch manager with the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District. He also holds a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a Bachelor of Science in Information Studies and Technology.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Desmond to Flint at such an important moment for our Library,” said Board President Heather Kale.

The community is invited to meet London at the library’s “Chill with the New ED: Ice Cream Social” on May 19 from 4:30–6:30 p.m. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public.