Kate Patterson Murphy

Kate Patterson is the Director of Communications for San Francisco Public Library. Prior to joining the Library, she led communications for the San Francisco Arts Commission for more than a decade. While at the Arts Commission, she oversaw all external communications and marketing. During her tenure, she was involved in publicizing high-profile civic projects including the world premiere of a 15-ton sculpture by renowned contemporary artist Zhang Huan, the bi-annual Mayor’s Art Award, the opening of three new terminals at San Francisco International Airport, the opening of Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and the new Salesforce Transit Center. Kate co-founded the Arts PR Roundtable, a quarterly convening of communications professionals at a variety of arts institutions (large and small). She was also instrumental in the planning and hosting of the 2017 Americans for the Arts Conference and the 2018 World Cities Culture Summit. Kate oversaw all external communications related to Prop E, the restoration of the historic tax allocation for the arts, which passed by a 75% majority in 2018. Prior to the Arts Commission, Kate worked for our great partners and friends at the Contemporary Jewish Museum. She received her BA in Art History from Smith College. A native San Franciscan, Kate lives in the City with her husband and 7-year old daughter.