Peter Allen and his wife Nan are native Californians who have relocated back and forth between both coasts before settling in Anacortes a few short years ago. Peter is an avid reader, particularly science fiction and military history, especially World War 2 on the Eastern Front. Peter & Nan have two children, Evan (24) and Adair (22) both of whom are living and working in the Mid-west. Peter is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a member of the Oak Harbor VFW post.

Rachelle holds a Masters degree in Library and Information Science and brings 11 years of work experience as a librarian, and 7 years as a library director in both private and public libraries. One of her very first jobs was working in a bookstore, so reading is obviously a favorite hobby! If she's not reading, you can find Rachelle hiking local trails, kayaking, or volunteering as a Salish Sea Steward with her husband, Ben. "I was thrilled to find such an excellent library when we moved to Anacortes, and look forward to continuing to support the library through work with the Friend Shop."

Coming Soon!

Nancy Fisher-Allison grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, spending countless hours at the local branch of her city’s public library.

Nancy worked part time in academia and research before being drawn into the world of teaching – and from there into school librarianship. She found it deeply gratifying to honor the legions of librarians who had supported her interests by paying it forward: helping children find their heart’s desire in the treasure house of the school library.

During her time on the Anacortes Public Library Board of Trustees, Nancy served as liaison to the Friends of the Anacortes Public Library and came to appreciate their mission. She joined the FOL Board in May 2024.

Chris came to Anacortes from northern CA after 23 years in elementary education, an easy move as Anacortes was a vacation destination for many years prior to coming here permanently in 2015. Chris’s love of books, from mystery to supernatural fiction, had her visiting the library often, and she never missed an opportunity to stop by the BookShop. She enjoys being active in the community as a P.E.O., helping to raise money for scholarships and volunteering at the BookShop and library on Tuesdays. She loves to do crafting with different media, gardening, and spending time with family.

Cissy’s roots and extended family are in the San Diego area. She spent twenty-two happy years working in various positions at the San Diego Housing Commission. One dream job led to another; her final project involved leading a team to knit together financial sources and the citywide political will to focus on homelessness. She and her husband, Rish, built their “dream house” overlooking the bay and then…found Anacortes. BOOM! She boasts of no artistic talents or outstanding qualities but everyone needs an audience, a little help, or a good book to read so she’s convinced there’s room for willing hands in this wonderful place.

Lesley is a recent transplant to Anacortes from Colorado where she worked for the local Library Foundation for 3 years and saw firsthand the impact our Library nonprofits can have in our communities. Lesley is a lifelong Library lover and is proud to be a part of the positive impact the Friends have on this wonderful community.

Susan retired to Anacortes after a career in publishing and as an analyst for the federal government. Susan has been active in Anacortes community affairs where she served as chair of both the Preservation Board and Anacortes Housing Authority. She enjoys local politics and has managed several campaigns. Susan has been an active member of the Friends of the Library.