I am Toni Lombardozzi, the face behind Early Rain, LLC.
My journey into library project management has taken me through multiple disciplines, given me the opportunity to work on projects in different roles, and experience them through varied perspectives. I completed a Master's Degree in Architecture before starting my professional career as an architectural designer in a firm specializing in higher education and government facilities. From there I transitioned into project management overseeing a wide range of grant funded public projects including senior and community centers, homeless shelters and transitional housing, infrastructure improvements, and housing rehabilitation and construction. After six years in that role, Charleston County Public Library hired me as a full-time project manager overseeing a $108.5 million capital improvements project that included building five new branches, renovating a facility for administrative offices, and renovating an existing thirteen branches ranging from 1200 to 100,000 square feet.
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​I have also been an avid library user since I was a child. I am uniquely positioned to see things from multiple perspectives: patron, library staff, design team, contractor, and then cohesively blend these to create the best overall library experience possible. I am here to seamlessly bridge the gap between these disciplines and help build exceptional libraries. ​
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Get to Know Us
About Early Rain
Other Voices
Nicolle Davies
Colorado State Librarian
Former Executive Director, Charleston County Public Library
"Toni's leadership as our construction project manager at Charleston County Public Library was truly exceptional. Her commanding technical knowledge of construction methodologies, combined with her ability to effectively lead diverse teams through complex challenges, ensured our multiple project's success from foundation to finish, including ground up construction as well as building remodels. What truly sets Toni apart is her remarkable communication skill - she translates technical complexities into clear understanding for key stakeholders. Having Toni at the helm made even the most challenging phases of our project progress smoothly and confidently. In addition to her exceptional knowledge, Toni is a joy to work with, kind, funny and relatable."
Natalie Hauff
Public Library Deputy Director
Non-profit Board of Directors Member
"I've had the pleasure of working with Toni for the past eight years at the Charleston County Public Library where she led the system's major capital projects with precisions, professionalism, and heart. Toni is a rare combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skill - thoughtful, thorough, and incredibly responsive to stakeholder needs. Whether navigating complex construction timelines or presenting project updates to the Board, she brings clarity, calm, and confidence to every interaction. Her ability to build trust with vendors, adapt under pressure, and keep projects on track is unmatched. Any organization would be lucky to have her guiding their next project."
Devon Andrews
Director, Mansfield Public Library
"Toni's commitment to flawless execution and attention to both the small details and the overall big picture made the renovations and opening of the new library branches a complete success! Toni could always be counted on for her vast knowledge, professionalism, and just being overall fantastic to work with. Every project should have someone of Toni's caliber helping to steer the ship."
I have been asked more than once, where did the name Early Rain come from? My grandparents were Earl and Lorraine and I liked the way their names blended together to create such a lovely concept.
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An early rain is refreshing and cleansing; it offers opportunities for a clean slate and looking at things from a new perspective. I strive to offer my clients that benefit when working together. Every project deserves fresh eyes and a solid start.
My grandmother was always smiling and never failed to find the positive side to any situation. I apply the same strategy to projects, looking at challenges as opportunities and always trying to find a way to get to "yes."
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My grandfather was an avid craftsman. If there was a project he didn't know how to complete, he would get a book as a resource and learn. I endeavor to create spaces where everyone has access to the resources that will let them dream bigger and take on quests that may have once felt impossible.