The DowntownDC Foundation Board of Directors unanimously approved the addition of DC Public Library Executive Director Richard Reyes‑Gavilan to its board of directors effective April 1st.
“Downtown DC and the DC Public Library have always had a symbiotic relationship. When downtown thrives, the Library thrives, and when the Library is activated, it brings people into the heart of the city,” said Reyes-Gavilan. “The DowntownDC Foundation is doing critical work to keep these public spaces connected and alive, and I’m proud to join this board and be part of that.”
“Richard’s leadership reflects many of the same values that guide the Foundation’s impactful work, from investing in public spaces to supporting individuals facing housing instability,” said Foundation Chair Gigi Murphy. “We are excited to welcome his experience to our board as we continue to strengthen our investment in the DowntownDC community.”
Reyes‑Gavilan brings decades of experience leading public institutions that serve as anchors for communities and civic life. Since his appointment to DC Public Library in 2014, he has led with a focus on ensuring libraries function as welcoming, inclusive spaces that meet a broad range of community needs, particularly in Downtown Washington, D.C. In that role, he guided one of the District’s most significant public investments — the $211 million transformation of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, which is located in DowntownDC.
Reopened in 2020, the MLK Library has become one of the District’s most visited cultural destinations. The library has hosted landmark programming including the US debut of original Leonardo da Vinci sketches from the Codex Atlanticus, which drew more than 15,000 visitors in its first six weeks, and one of the largest Art All Night block party celebrations in the city. The MLK Library now blends learning, technology, cultural programming, and public gathering space while continuing its long‑standing role as a low‑barrier, daytime resource for individuals experiencing homelessness. The library provides access to computers, employment and educational support, and connects patrons to on‑site outreach and social services.
Reyes-Gavilan actively works on several DowntownDC initiatives including through his role in the Downtown Action Plan, the Gallery Place-Chinatown Task Force, and other initiatives. Reyes‑Gavilan recently completed service on the board of the Washington Architectural Foundation.
Reyes‑Gavilan joins a committed board of directors who lead the DowntownDC Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit launched by the DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID) in 2019. The Foundation serves and celebrates our vibrant and diverse DowntownDC community by providing homeless services, revitalizing parks, and enhancing public spaces and experiences.
Learn more at www.downtowndcfoundation.org.