Charles E. Beard (November 17, 1940 – June 2, 2004) was a notable librarian from the state of Georgia.

GALILEO stands for Georgia Library Learning Online and is a virtual library with over one hundred databases and is available to K12 users as well as most higher education systems in Georgia.

Beard battled illness for months prior to his retirement and his retirement party was advanced to May 28, 2004, instead of the date that marked his twenty-sixth year of service, June 30.

Beard's respiratory condition worsened right before his retirement party and he was unable to attend.

[6] GLA also named one of their scholarships after him; The Beard Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to those pursuing a master's degree in Library Science who “inspire and motivate their peers in the profession and in professional associations.”[7]