LIBRARY FOUNDATION OF LOS ANGELES ANNOUNCES JULIE TUGEND AS INTERIM PRESIDENT

(Los Angeles, CA – September 9, 2021) The Library Foundation of Los Angeles (LFLA) today announced the appointment of nonprofit management executive Julie Tugend as Interim President. Tugend replaces retiring Library Foundation of Los Angeles President Ken Brecher, who served since 2010.

In this role, Tugend will guide the operational functions of the Foundation and act as the liaison to the LFLA Board. The LFLA plays a crucial role as a partner to the Los Angeles Public Library system through fundraising and advocacy.

“Julie is a seasoned and strategic leader with a long history of civic impact and a deep commitment to the values that shape our work at the Library Foundation of Los Angeles,” said Debra Albin-Riley, Chair of LFLA’s Board of Directors. “Under Julie’s leadership, the organization is positioned to seamlessly continue its critical role supporting the Los Angeles Public Library and the people of Los Angeles.”

The Library Foundation of Los Angeles supports the Los Angeles Public Library in its efforts to provide free and equitable access to resources for individuals across Los Angeles. Funded programs include Adult Literacy, Career Online High School, civic engagement program Teens Leading Change, the award-winning conversation series ALOUD, and more.

Tugend is a veteran of LA City government and is a respected nonprofit executive and advisor. Her expertise will aid the organization in reaching its strategic goals while the Board conducts the executive search with the assistance of nonprofit executive search firm Envision Consulting.

“The Los Angeles Public Library system is a vital and vibrant component of our city’s social and civic infrastructure. This has perhaps never been more evident than during the pandemic when our libraries have provided everything from online learning assistance to students while schools were closed, to COVID-19 vaccination clinics as we move towards recovery. I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to help the Library Foundation of Los Angeles navigate its change in leadership and will do my best to ensure the LFLA is well positioned to continue to marshal community resources to support the Library and its invaluable programs,” says Tugend.

Julie Tugend is a management consultant and executive coach with over 30 years of executive-level experience in philanthropy, government, and the nonprofit sector. Her civic involvement dates back to the beginning of her career when she served as an aide in Mayor Tom Bradley’s administration. Julie served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for The California Endowment, the largest health foundation in the state. Her consulting clients have included Community Partners, the California Mental Health Services Authority, Vista del Mar Child and Family Services, Young Storytellers and First 5 LA. Julie is a graduate of Reed College and The Second City Conservatory.

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ABOUT THE Library Foundation of Los Angeles
The Library Foundation of Los Angeles supports the Los Angeles Public Library in its effort to provide all 3.8 million Angelenos with equitable access to thousands of free programs, resources, and services. Through fundraising, advocacy, and innovative programs, the Library Foundation strengthens the Library’s commitment to educate and empower every individual in our city’s diverse communities. At the Foundation, we are committed to keeping the Library thriving for generations to come and to providing all Angelenos with the tools to enrich and improve their lives.