Changes at Philadelphia free library: Shelkrot to retire after 20 years; $15m pledge boosts expansion project.(lj news)(Elliot Shelkrot)

Elliot Shelkrot, director and president of the Philadelphia Free Library for the past 20 years, announced April 23 that he would step down at the end of 2007. The story made the front page of the Philadelphia Inquirer, as did a photo of one of the library's most recent accomplishments, the first annual Philadelphia Book Festival, which brought some 150 authors and exhibitors to events in and around the library.

Shelkrot noted that when he arrived, the library wasn't able to offer the hours it does today: six-day service at the branches, with seven days at the regional libraries and main library. "I've done some exciting things here," he said, praising his staff and …