This photo of Mary Frances Isom, the library's first female director, was probably taken in the late teens or possibly 1920, the year of her death. In 1902, at age 37 and in her first year of library work, Ms. Isom was appointed to succeed David P. Leach as director, a position that since 1864 had always been held by men. She assumed this position just as the Library Association opened its entire collection to the public free of charge. During her 18-year tenure she achieved her vision of a new Central Library building, a countywide branch system, and branches in the public schools. Transcribed from back of photo: 'Mary Frances Isom'.