Des Moines Public Library director to retire

Des Moines Public Library Director Greg Heid is set to retire after more than seven years in that role and 53 years in library services.

His last day is March 30 with a farewell reception set for 2-4 p.m. that day at the Central Library, according to a news release.

He began his current role in January 2011.

The Minneapolis native previously worked at the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library and the Newton County Library outside of Atlanta.

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“It is with mixed emotion that I leave the Des Moines Public Library,” he said in the release. “I look forward to pursuing many of my passions and interests as I transition into retirement. However, I will miss the wonderful, dedicated staff of the library and the many colleagues that I have worked with throughout the city.

“I know that the Library Board of Trustees will find a capable director who will take the Des Moines Public Library to new and exciting heights.”

During his tenure in Des Moines, Heid oversaw projects that included renovations, the launch of the system’s virtual library, the installment of an art gallery at Central Library and more.