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California Library Hall of Fame

James Dawe

Jim Dawe saw libraries as the “great equalizer” and always noted that access to learning through libraries had contributed to his success in life. He served as Chair of the San Diego Library Commission, the California State Library Board, the Urban Libraries Council, which is comprised of the 120 largest library systems in the United States, and was the Founding Chair of the San Diego Public Library Foundation. One of his happiest achievements was the opening of the new San Diego Central Library in 2013. He was also instrumental in the 2000 California State Bond Measure that would lead to $350 million for libraries across the state, including money to build the Logan Heights and San Diego Central libraries.