Brooklyn Public Library on Wednesday named Edwin B. Maxwell as Chief Librarian.
Maxwell previously served as the senior director of Neighborhood Services, overseeing nearly 700 employees, the operations for 60 neighborhood branches, and BPL’s satellite services division which includes the systems’ four bookmobiles.
He began his career as a youth services librarian, creating programs like the Growing Dollars and Sense Teen Virtual Investment Club—which connected young people with finance professionals to learn about financial literacy tools and prepare for a lifetime of investing. The program gained national attention and Library Journal recognized Maxwell with its Mover and Shaker award.
“Brooklyn Public Library is one of New York City’s most powerful civic institutions, and it has been my home for almost two decades," Maxwell said in a statement. "I’ve seen firsthand how our branches transform lives. I am humbled to take on this role and to advance our mission of ensuring Brooklyn has a library system that reflects its people, meets their needs, and opens new possibilities."
Over nearly 20 years, Maxwell has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as the manager of New Lots Library. During his tenure, the branch was awarded the prestigious Revson Award for outstanding community service.
In his most recent role, he managed numerous major renovations, expanded Satellite Services, and launched the Teen Tech Center network, significantly growing the number of centers available to Brooklyn teens. He also positioned BPL to take a stronger role in environmental and civic engagement, embedding sustainability and civic dialogue deeper into the library’s mission and daily operations.
In addition to his career in Brooklyn, Maxwell has also worked for New York Public Library and Wyandanch Public Library. He earned a master’s degree in library science at Queens College and a bachelor’s degree in business at Cheyney University, the nation’s oldest historically Black university.
To see a list of Maxwell's favorite books, click here.
