In the aftermath of a mass shooting at Mother Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, The American Library Association (ALA) is saddened to learn that public librarian Cynthia Hurd was among the fatally injured.
Hurd’s commitment to librarianship was apparent during her more than three decades with the Charleston (S.C.) County Public Library. Hurd served as branch manager of the John L. Dart Branch from 1990–2011 before becoming manager of the St. Andrews Regional Library.
ALA President Courtney Young released the following statement.
“Cynthia Hurd was beloved by her community,” said Young “Her dedication to librarianship was apparent as she worked to transform lives through education and lifelong learning. The thousands of lives she touched over the years will serve as a lasting living legacy.
“The American Library Association would like to expresses its deepest condolences to Cynthia’s family, as well as the many families impacted by this very senseless and tragic act of violence.
“As our nation begins to try to make sense of this tragedy, various ALA divisions will reach out to our colleagues in Charleston, South Carolina, to express concern and to lend support.
“I also would like the people of Charleston to know that the library community’s thoughts and prayers are with you as you work to come together to build a community of tolerance and cultural acceptance.”
