|
For the past decade, Hannah Walcher has held many
fulfilling roles at Books Inc., including bookseller, Children’s Events Coordinator, and Book Fair Manager. In her most recent role, Hannah had the distinct honor of pioneering Books Inc.’s latest venture as the founding Executive Director of Books Inc.’s Reading Bridge, a 501(c)(3) literary non-profit providing children throughout the Bay Area with access to new, diverse, and inclusive books via school book fairs. Now, stepping into a new chapter as CALIBA’s Executive Director, she is committed to fostering education among booksellers across the state and sees her position as an opportunity to be a valuable resource to all California bookstores.
Hannah Walcher, incoming CALIBA Executive Director, says, “First, I would like to thank Books Inc., my home-away-from-home, for the chances they gave me to grow professionally, which have prepared me for this next chapter as CALIBA’s Executive Director. I am grateful for this opportunity to serve CALIBA’s members and continue the important mission of promoting the vitality, diversity, and prosperity of independent bookselling throughout California. I look forward to getting on the road and meeting as many of our members as possible! Independent booksellers show the way.”
Hannah is succeeding Co-Executive Director Ann Seaton, who had planned to retire at the end of 2023 and is currently serving as Interim Director of CALIBA, and Kristin Rasmussen, who left the Co-Executive Director position for a role as Scholastic District Sales Manager in December. Hannah will begin part-time work for CALIBA in March as she transitions between her Executive Director roles, becoming the full-time Executive Director in June 2024. Valentina Moberg, who has been an admin with CALIBA since 2020, has stepped into the role of Operations Manager. Emma Marie will continue in her role, primarily managing marketing and promotions while backing up all things CALIBA in numerous ways.
CALIBA Board President Melinda Powers of Bookshop Santa Cruz says, “California independent booksellers are as myriad and wonderful as our bookshelves – full of tastemakers, innovators, and economic engines, local gems and cultural touchstones – and Hannah has the experience, vision, and enthusiasm to bring us together, strengthen our community, increase our impact on the industry and our state, and lead us in a time that needs books and our bookstores more than ever."
|
