The staff of the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library join libraries across Michigan in remembering Randy Riley, State Librarian of Michigan.
In his official capacity, Randy visited the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library on several occasions, taking time to listen, learn, and engage with staff about the needs of the Flint community. He understood the essential role public libraries play in cities like Flint and consistently affirmed their importance as places of access, equity, and opportunity.
Members of our staff also worked alongside Randy in Washington, D.C., advocating for libraries at the national level. In those moments, he was known not only for his intelligence and leadership, but for his kindness, approachability, and genuine respect for others. He was a thoughtful collaborator and a steady advocate for libraries and the people they serve.
Randy believed deeply that libraries exist to impact communities in the present—not to rest on past successes. That belief aligns closely with the mission of the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, and his legacy continues to resonate in the work we do every day.
He will be deeply missed by the library community in Flint and across Michigan.
For more about his life and work, please see his obituary.