Presenter
Presented by Ms. Carlisle
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Whereas, Herbert Elish, who has been Director of Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh since December 1998 and is the ninth person to hold the position, announced last month that he will be resigning in order to spend more time with his family; and
Whereas, a native in Brooklyn, Herbert Elish moved to the region in 1987, that same year he was named Chairman and CEO of Weirton Steel Corporation, a major integrated steel company; and
Whereas, Mr. Elish quickly ended concerns about his inexperience in operating a library by launching an aggressive $60 million capital campaign which has successfully raised over $25 million for the library; and
Whereas, Mr. Elish has directed nearly all of these new funds to upgrading the Main Library and the aging branches, which included the Homewood library which was restored to its original grandeur and reopen one year ago on November 3, 2003; and
Whereas, Mr. Elish placed a renewed emphasis on making the libraries more inviting and comfortable, better suited for community and library programs, and capable of displaying both print and electronic materials. These improvements has resulted in vibrant, state-of-the art facilities; and
Whereas, Mr. Elish serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Allegheny General Hospital. Mr. Elish is also active in a national organization concerned with the future of libraries, The Urban Libraries Council, where he holds an Executive Committee position, as well as serving on various committees including Forecasting Strategy. He was also chairman of the City of Pittsburgh Housing Authority.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh, does hereby recognize and commend Mr. Herbert Elish for his diligent service to the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh, declares Friday, November 1st, 2004 as "Herbert Elish Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.