Catherine Hollerbach serves as Director of Prince George's County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS). She began her tenure in this role with PGCMLS in July 2026, bringing more than 37 years of experience in Maryland’s public libraries. Before taking on this role, Catherine was the Chief Operating Officer for Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL). She recently co-authored her first book with Christine Feldmann, AACPL Director of Marketing and Communications, entitled Empowering Library Staff and Customers: Building a Culture of teamwork and Trust, published by Bloomsbury Libraries Unlimited. Catherine holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism and a Master of Library Science degree from the University of Maryland.
I got into libraries accidentally! I had just graduated from college with a degree in journalism and I was working for my friend’s business but I had no idea what I wanted to do with my degree. My mom saw an ad in the newspaper for a library associate to help people with reference questions and do storytime for kids. She said it looked like something I might like. I applied for the job and didn’t get it the first time but I kept at it and finally got a part time substitute job. It ended up being a great fit for me! I like learning, helping people, working with children, and having a job that has meaning. I worked part time and went to library school for my master’s degree in library science while my kids were little and then got on track for a full time librarian job, and gradually moved up into management and administration. I love the work and the community of libraries.
Libraries are the cornerstone of the community. They are one of the few places where people can hang out without an expectation of spending money or even being productive. I see the difference that libraries make in our communities every day! Of course we still have lots of books, and that is what often brings people in the door. But we also have early literacy programs that kids love and that help parents and caregivers learn how to prepare their kids for kindergarten. We provide job help, educational and enriching programs for all ages, and resources to meet the diverse needs of our community. Public libraries have something for everyone, and are a safe and welcoming place for all.
I’m excited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Prince George’s County. We have wonderful programs planned for all ages, including music, art, dance, and crafts. We have book discussions and author talks. What a great way to honor our Hispanic community and share the culture with our customers.
We are very busy. People who haven’t used a library in a while might not know that we have lines of people waiting to get in, study rooms that are booked for all of our open hours, and waiting lists for many books. The library has changed over the years, but it is still relevant and bustling!
I love spending time with my family, especially my five little grandsons. We like to go swimming most days, and we can often be found exploring the parks in our community. Our favorite is Kinder Farm Park in Severna Park, which has a great playground, walking paths, antique tractors and farm animals. Of course, I enjoy reading, and also snow skiing and making music.
Back to Press Room
