By Terra Cribbs
After more than three decades of dedicated public service, Ms. Terra Cribbs, Branch Manager of the East Atlanta Library, will retire in mid-January, closing an astonishing 32-year chapter with the Fulton County Library System.
After relocating to Atlanta from California to pursue a master’s degree in library and information science at Clark Atlanta University, Ms. Cribbs began her library career with Fulton County in 1993 as a part-time Library Assistant. She often recalls the moment fondly: walking into the Buckhead Library to apply, interviewing on the spot, and being hired the very same day, a serendipitous beginning that launched a lifelong career in public service.
Little did Ms. Cribbs know that earning her undergraduate studies with a specialization in Chinese from the University of California, San Diego would change her career path forever. Her unique educational background coupled with a master’s degree in librarianship proved pivotal during her job interview in 1994. After speaking Mandarin Chinese during the interview process, she was offered a position as a full-time Children’s Librarian at the Adamsville-Collier Heights Library.
That skill soon became a defining feature of her work. Ms. Cribbs incorporated elements of Chinese language and culture into her story time programs, exposing children to global perspectives and diversity. Reflecting on that unexpected turn early in her career, Ms. Cribbs often says, “Never look a gift-horse in the mouth.”
Her passion for youth engagement and community-centered programming led to leadership roles across the library system. She served as Youth Services Department Manager and Assistant Branch Manager at Southwest Library, now known as the Evelyn G. Lowry Cascade Library, as well as at Northeast Spruill Oaks in Johns Creek, where she mentored staff and expanded services for families, teens, seniors, and young readers.
She concludes her career as Branch Manager of the East Atlanta Library, where she has been a steady presence and advocate for literacy and community connection. Known for her institutional knowledge and unwavering commitment to public service, Ms. Cribbs leaves behind a legacy felt not only in buildings and programs, but in people.
Retirement, however, will not slow her stride. Ms. Cribbs plans to take swimming lessons, publish a cookbook, travel overseas, explore investment education, grow her permanent jewelry business, continue volunteering at the library, and most importantly, spend time with family and friends.
Her next chapter promises the same curiosity, energy, and purpose that defined her career – just with a little more room for adventure. As she reflects on her past and the journey ahead, Ms. Cribbs shares a quote that has guided her both professionally and personally: “… Somewhere ages and ages hence, two road
