Georgia Public Library Service
Derek Wilson is a seasoned professional in library management with over two decades of experience in various roles within public library systems. Currently, Derek serves as the Manager of Public Libraries and Archive Facilities at Georgia Public Library Service since September 2023. Prior to this, Derek was the Chief Executive Officer of Wilson Franchise Group LLC starting in August 2020 and the Executive Director of Florence-Lauderdale Public Library from April 2019 to August 2020. Derek's extensive background also includes significant positions within the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System, ranging from Library Assistant to Branch Manager from 1997 to 2019. Derek holds a Master of Library & Information Science from Clark Atlanta University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Alabama State University.
Georgia Public Library Service
A unit of the University System of Georgia, GPLS is the state agency for public libraries in Georgia. Our services and programs include: - Georgia Library Public Information Network for Electronic Services (PINES): the public library automation and lending network for 281 public libraries and affiliated service outlets in 143 counties - Georgia Library Learning Online (GALILEO): the state’s virtual library, providing online access to thousands of periodicals, scholarly journals, books, encyclopedias, business directories and government publications. - Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS): the state's talking book and braille library, promoting assistive technology and providing accessible reading materials to those who, due to a disability, are unable to read standard print. - Professional Consulting, Training and Facilities Support: GPLS supports Georgia’s libraries by providing a broad range of consulting services and technical assistance. - Others, including Grant Administration, Youth Services and Family Literacy, Computer Networking and Technical Support