Still in search of a “visionary” director of the Oakland (Calif.) Public Library System, Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown revealed that he now wants poet Maya Angelou for the job, according to the April 15 San Francisco Chronicle.
Announcing that he wants someone “who can exemplify the love of learning and literature,” Brown said Angelou would be able to continue her writing and speaking endeavors while a chief operating officer would handle all the administrative duties. “As far as purchase orders and all the other activities of running one of the departments in city government, there are many who can do that, but few who can inspire,” Brown said.
Angelou, who lives in North Carolina, is related through marriage to an Oakland city official. The Chronicle reported that she was unavailable for comment.
Last summer Brown sought activist Angela Davis for the job. Library supporters are pushing to fill the position, which has been vacant for more than a year.
Posted April 24, 2000.