Cobb’s Board of Commissioners Approves New Library Director

Marietta, GA (Nov. 21, 2024)—The Cobb County Board of Commissioners has named Keith Schuermann as the new Library Director, the first appointment to this role in 16 years. Schuermann will oversee the county’s 15-branch library system, starting December 2. Initially, he will work alongside current Director Helen Poyer, who plans to retire after 18 years of service with the Cobb Library System.

County Manager Dr. Jackie McMorris recommended Schuermann for the position, highlighting his extensive experience. “With over 20 years of leadership in library systems, including his most recent role as director of the Troup-Harris Library System, Keith brings a wealth of expertise to Cobb,” McMorris stated.

Schuermann expressed enthusiasm for his new role. “What sold me on working with Cobb County was the people I met and the conversations I had about this opportunity,” Schuermann said during the board meeting. “Your library system is the Library of the Year in the state, and your staff exemplifies that excellence. My goal is to elevate that excellence from state-level recognition to national prominence.”

Following Schuermann’s appointment, Dr. McMorris proposed renaming the Library’s innovative Bookmobile program to honor Poyer’s contributions. The newly christened Helen Poyer Cobb County Bookmobile will continue to serve all areas of the county.

During the meeting, McMorris reflected on Poyer’s remarkable career, which began in Cobb County in 2006. Poyer was promoted to Director of the Library System in 2009 and played a pivotal role in launching the Bookmobile program, designed to provide library services to underserved areas of the county. The Library System grew tremendously under her leadership, culminating with the statewide “Library of the Year” award presented by the Georgia Public Library Service earlier this year.

Poyer’s family surprised her by attending the meeting, and a large group of library staff joined to celebrate her legacy and achievements.