Fr. Reynaldo Frias-Santana has been named director of the Benton Harbor Public Library. The library, in southwest lower Michigan, serves a population of 23,477. Fr. Frias-Santana received his Master’s degree in Library Science and Technology from the University of Puerto Rico at San Piedras. Most recently he served as an ordained Capuchin Franciscan Catholic priest for the Diocese of Philadelphia, as well as working as National Chaplain for the Fellowship of Catholic University Students. His library experience includes library director at Calasanz College in Puerto Rico, and librarian at the Washington Theological Union Library. He is a member of the American Library Association, Association of Caribbean University, Research and Institutional Libraries, and the Catholic Library Association. Fr. Reynaldo was born in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic. In 1998, he earned his licentiate in Philosophy at the Pontifical Catholic University of Santo Domingo and in 2004 he completed his master’s degree in Technology Information & Library Science at the University of Puerto Rico. Fr. Reynaldo along with Doctor Jose Sanchez and Juan Gusti Established the Center for Action, Education and Literacy for Residents & Immigrants in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. In the Dominican Republic, Father Reynaldo helped to organize the Public Library. He was a consultant and advisor for the Public Library in the Dominican Republic until recently. Father Reynaldo was the Librarian for the Washington Theological Union (WTU) and also for his religious community the Capuchin Franciscans. In Philadelphia Father Reynnaldo helped to establish the Padre Pio Center. A place where the people of Kensington, Frankford and Northeast Philadelphia can find information, help, mercy and love. Fr. Reynaldo aslo helped to establish Annie Home, a "Ray of Hope" for pregnant and single mothers. Father Reynaldo is excited to be the new Executive Director of Benton Harbor Public Library. He is looking forward to working with the people of the community and together bringing peace, respect, inclusivity and hope to those who feel marginalized. Jill Rauh, Public Services Librarian Benton Harbor Public Library 213 E. Wall St. Benton Harbor, MI 49022 269-926-6139 www.bentonharborlibrary.com The information and views presented do not necessarily represent those of the Benton Harbor Public Library.