Shawn Mitchell – Spent time in the library as a child

Shawn Mitchell’s father was in the U.S. Navy, and he was stationed in many places. His father met his mother in Australia, and they raised six children as the family moved around the world. 

They eventually settled in San Diego in one of the new subdivisions that were constantly being created at that time.  Their subdivision came with a library.  Shawn says, “I remember going with our parents to the brand-new Allied Gardens/Benjamin library branch and getting library cards.  I spent a lot of time in that branch of the city’s libraries.”

Shawn started his teaching career in San Diego County but eventually moved to Beaumont where he served many years in different positions for Beaumont Unified School District.  One of his earliest experiences with the Library District was as an elementary school principal.  He would arrange field trips for the students and always encouraged them to get their library cards.

Excited about Beaumont Library’s future

He has stated that, “As our community has grown, so have the services provided by our Library District.  I have enjoyed taking my grandsons to summer programs at our parks and participating in the Zip Books program” [see him holding a Zip Books title in the photo to the right].  

“The Library District is building a first-class facility to reflect the community we are and to provide services that the citizens of Beaumont and Cherry Valley deserve.  I am excited about our library’s future!”