Fulton County Library System is proud to announce that Dr. Cheryl Small, Deputy Director of Youth Services and Community Engagement, has been named a 250 Public Service Champion by Local Gov 250 and the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA).
A distinguished member of the library system for more than 30 years, Dr. Small is one of only nine public servants in the State of Georgia to receive this prestigious national honor. The Local Gov 250 initiative—developed by a coalition of local governments and civic associations—celebrates exemplary public servants as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. This national recognition highlights those who have made exceptional, lasting contributions to their communities through innovation, leadership, and service.
Dr. Small was nominated by Shamichael Hallman, Senior Director of Civic Health and Economic Opportunity at the Urban Libraries Council, in recognition of her tireless dedication to Fulton County residents and her transformative approach to community engagement and youth programming.
Over the course of her career, Dr. Small has held numerous leadership roles, including Central Library Administrator and Grant Administrator for Georgia’s only Best Buy Teen Tech Center. In her current role, she continues to expand youth services and community partnerships that connect residents to literacy, technology, and opportunity.
Her visionary leadership has helped transform the Central Library into a vibrant hub of learning and culture. Through collaborations with community partners, Dr. Small has brought acclaimed authors and public figures such as Deborah Roberts, Kenan Thompson, and Anika Noni Rose—to engage with local audiences. Each event includes her trademark touch: ensuring that every attendee leaves with a free book in hand, reinforcing her lifelong mission of making literature accessible to all.
Dr. Small’s commitment to youth literacy and innovation began early in her career. She has designed and led programs that spark a love of reading and science among young people, from Summer Reading Kickoffs to imaginative STEM craft sessions and coding workshops. Her oversight of the Best Buy Teen Tech Center has created pathways for countless teens to explore careers in technology, gain mentorships, and earn scholarships including four $40,000 awards jointly funded by The Best Buy Foundation and UNCF.
Through every role she has held, Dr. Small’s unwavering advocacy for youth and her passion for community empowerment have defined her work. Her recognition as a 250 Public Service Champion stands as a testament to her enduring impact on public service, libraries, and the communities she continues to inspire.