Atheneum Taps One Of Its Own To Lead Library: Leslie Malcolm Named Executive Director & Head Librarian

The Nantucket Atheneum on Tuesday named Leslie Malcolm as its executive director and head librarian.

Malcolm had served as the Atheneum’s interim executive director since May, when former director Ann Scott stepped down from her role. Before that, Malcolm was the head of the Atheneum’s Weezie Library for Children, a position she had held since 2011, and had been a volunteer at the library for years, in addition to serving a term on the Atheneum's Board of Trustees.

Malcolm becomes only the tenth head librarian in the Atheneum's nearly 200-year history. She follows in the footsteps of Maria Mitchell — the first professional female astronomer — who was appointed as the institution’s inaugural librarian at just 18 years old.

“The Atheneum Board unanimously and enthusiastically concluded that the best person to lead the organization was already part of our team,” said Sam Flax, Chair of the Atheneum’s Board of Trustees. “During her time as interim executive director, Leslie demonstrated the leadership and professional demeanor to direct the Atheneum as a premier year-round center for learning and educational programming for the Nantucket community. We’re especially proud to appoint someone with such deep roots in the island community.”

A native of Summit, New Jersey, Malcolm relocated to Nantucket in 1994 and began her volunteer work at the Atheneum in 1998. She holds a BA in Art History from Randolph College and an MLIS from Simmons College. Before moving to Nantucket, Malcolm held roles at the Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt Museum, Christie’s auction house, and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles.

“I am honored to accept the position of executive director of the Nantucket Atheneum,” said Malcolm. “This library holds a historic and deeply meaningful place in the hearts and lives of our community — serving not just as a center for learning, but as a gathering space, a safe haven, and a catalyst for growth across generations. I am committed to upholding and building upon that legacy. I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, Board, and community to ensure the library continues to thrive as an inclusive, innovative, and welcoming space for all.”