Siobhan Reardon
Siobhan Reardon (nee O’Loughlin) became the seventh president and director of the Free Library of Philadelphia in September 2008—the first woman ever to serve in this capacity in 114 years.
Previously, Siobhan was executive director of the Westchester (NY) Library System, a 38-member cooperative library system. While there, she launched a public relations and branding program, increased county support by 45 percent, and implemented technological enhancements. Prior to that, she was deputy executive director of the Brooklyn Public Library, serving as chief operating officer of the nation’s fifth largest library system.
Her accomplishments include tripling the size of the Library’s Foundation, spearheading a $15 million capital campaign for an auditorium and plaza for the Central Library, and strengthening the government relations function. She also served as acting executive director and director of finance.
Siobhan began her library career at New York Public Library in several finance roles. She holds a B.A. from SUNY Purchase, an M.A. from Fordham University, and an M.L.S. from the Palmer School of Library Science at Long Island University.
One of nine children in a fourth generation Irish-American family, Siobhan says her parents made sure the family remained closely tied to their heritage. “Growing up with a name like Siobhan O’Loughlin, it was pretty clear that I was Irish,” she jokes.
Her name aside, Siobhan describes her connection to her heritage as something deeper. “I think being Irish comes from within,” she says. “There is a deep sense of pride in culture and a very strong connection to family.”
A strong connection to family has been a constant theme in Siobhan’s life. She credits her parents, especially her mother, as her greatest inspirations in life.
“They believed that a good education is the best investment parents can make in their children,” she explains. Siobhan’s love of learning and stories, which have served her well in her professional career, are traits that she describes as part of “the essence” of the Irish people.
“Being Irish is a beautiful thing,” she says thoughtfully. “The Irish are always looking for the joy in things.”
