Board Member Spotlight: Courtney Sullivan

“There is nothing greater than giving a child the gift of reading.”

Lifelong South Fayette resident, Courtney Sullivan, joined the Board of the South Fayette Township Library in January 2020. She immediately dove in and became an active member of the Fundraising Committee, of which she is still a member. She served a year as Secretary, and this February, she will be voted in as the Board’s newest President.

Courtney teaches English, speech, and a capstone research seminar for a nursing university based in Southern California and has been teaching at the college level since 2008.

“Being able to offer learning opportunities and reading resources, as well as community activities is important. Our township has grown so much in the 40 years I’ve lived here, so a bigger and better library is much needed,” says Courtney.

Courtney with her daughter

How long have you lived in South Fayette?

I have been here my entire life. I’m a graduate of South Fayette and moved just 1 mile away from my childhood home.

How did you first get involved with the library?

I have very fond memories of visiting the Bridgeville Public Library with my mom when it was in the train car. I had such an early love of reading and books that I am working to instill that same love in my daughter. When a board position opened at the South Fayette Twp. Library, I decided it would be a perfect fit for me. 

Why are you supporting the library? 

I am excited to help generate funding and support for our library. Being able to offer learning opportunities and reading resources, as well as community activities is important. Our township has grown so much in the 40 years I’ve lived here so a bigger and better library is much needed.

What is your favorite thing about the library?

The quiet, the books, the overall ambiance.  Books are a calming place for me.

Any favorite events or memories? 

Beer for Books is an amazing event that supports the library and local businesses. Helicon Brewing has been an extremely supportive partner for our fall event, and we look forward to continuing it!

Where do you see the library in 10 years? 

I see the library with a brand-new building that supports reading, learning and community engagement.

What is your favorite book?

That is a very tough question! I have so many favorites!  I love The Great Gatsby and reread that every few years.  The Witching Hour by Anne Rice ranks high, as well as Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier. Psychological thrillers and Victorian-era ghost stories always grab my attention, too.

Any final words? 

There is nothing greater than giving a child the gift of reading.  If you haven’t visited our library, please do!  It may be small (at least for right now), but it is mighty!