New York State Library

Bicentennial Moments

Janet Martin Welch was the first woman to serve as New York State’s Librarian.  Appointed in 1996, Welch served until her retirement in 2008.  A certified School Library Media Specialist, Welch held leadership positions in university, public, school and corporate libraries throughout her career. Prior to her appointment to the New York State Library, Welch served as Director of the Rochester Regional Library Council, a network of 500 libraries in the Rochester, New York area. 

Under her leadership the State Library underwent a major renovation of the Research Library, enhanced the Talking Book and Braille Library and made important additions to the State Library’s collection.