Ms. Mitchell has more than 35 years professional experience in libraries, including academic, public, school, medical and state libraries. Under her direction the State Library (APLS) has developed its services to include information technology circuit riders that work directly with the 213 public libraries.

Ms. Ring worked for over 20 years in public libraries. Originally from Erie, PA where she worked in the Erie County Library System, Ms. Ring held progressively more responsible positions until 1995 when she became Library Director.

She has served as the Director and Librarian of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission since October 1999. Prior to her return to her native state of Texas, Ms. Rudd served as the Chief of the Bureau of Library Development at the State Library of Florida from 1994 to 1999.

Currently working to rebuild public libraries in the 21 communities along the Mississippi and Louisiana Gulf Coast impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Gulf Coast Project has three goals: Building temporary libraries, administering planning grants, and restoring Preservation & Conservation Core Program (PAC) to the participant library communities.

She directed the design/construction of a new $13 million facility; worked closely with libraries affected by Hurricane Katrina; and led development of a public library system accreditation program. Ms. Smith was State Librarian of Iowa and created a statewide library information network.