New CEO to ‘lead library into its next chapter’

A long-time Markham Public Library (MPL) staff member will “lead the library into its next chapter” following the retirement of Catherine Biss, who served in the role for 24 years.

“After an extensive search, the MPL Board selected Andrea Cecchetto for her extraordinary and ongoing commitment to literacy, learning, innovation, equity and inclusion,” says Board Chair Margaret McGrory. “With this appointment and a bold new strategic plan, MPL is well positioned to deliver on its vision of a thriving, connected and resilient Markham.”

Cecchetto has more than 22 years of leadership experience with MPL, most recently serving as the director of service excellence. Her strong commitment to service excellence is reflected in MPL’s award-winning Customer Service Revolution, which became recognized within the library sector as a standard of excellence, the City of Markham reports. Additionally, Cecchetto has held senior leadership roles on provincial, national, and international library association boards, honing her skills in advocacy and financial management, the City adds.

“Andrea’s longstanding commitment to MPL, combined with her passion for innovation, service excellence and advancing inclusion and diversity make her well positioned to lead the library into its next chapter,” says Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to former MPL CEO Catherine Biss for her remarkable 24 years of leadership and dedicated service.”

Photo of Markham Public Library’s new Chief Executive Officer Andrea Cecchetto courtesy of the City of Markham.