John F. Szabo is the City Librarian of the Los Angeles Public Library, which serves more than four million people—the largest population of any public library in the United States. He oversees the Central Library and 72 branches.

Under his leadership, the Library’s major initiatives include those related to immigrant integration and citizenship, civic engagement, digital equity, sustainability, and lifelong learning. He has expanded the library’s reach into the city’s diverse communities through partnerships with several community-based organizations.

He has more than 30 years of leadership experience in public libraries, previously serving as the director of four libraries including the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System. Recognizing his “genuine love of community” and how he has aligned library services with the city’s priorities, including homelessness, John was named Library Journal’s 2025 Librarian of the Year.