After a 40-year career with the Long Beach Public Library, Department of Library Services Director Glenda Williams will retire in late December, the City announced today.
Williams became the director of the Department of Library Services in 2009.
“Thanks to Glenda’s leadership, vision, and dedication to our community, residents young and old have had access to a diverse collection of books, literary programs and educational resources,” City Manager Tom Modica said in a statement. “We are grateful for the many decades Glenda has contributed to our city, and we wish her the best of luck in her well-deserved retirement.”
According to a City statement, Williams worked at each of the 12 library locations and in City Hall in public-facing service roles and technology and advocacy roles.
She began her career with the City in 1981, putting books back in their proper locations and held positions such as library clerk, general librarian, department librarian, bureau manager and director.
“During her time with the library, Ms. Williams helped transition the City to new literary and technological frontiers; from the opening of the City’s first public computer center in 2000 to twice migrating the library’s vast collection catalog and patron accounts to new, integrated library systems,” the City statement said.
William’s leadership as director led the effort to bring high-speed, low-cost internet and WiFi to the library through its participation in the Corporation of Educational Network Initiatives in California.
Williams also oversaw the planning and development of three new state-of-the-art Library locations: Mark Twain Library in 2007, Michelle Obama Library in 2016, and Billie Jean King Main Library in 2019.
In 2017, she received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities.
“It has been a pleasure serving the young readers and lifelong learners of our Long Beach community throughout my 40-year career with the City,” Williams said. “I am so grateful for my dedicated library staff and all they do to help our residents meet their personal and educational goals. I look forward to seeing all they will continue to do for the betterment of our community.”
According to the City, an interim director will be assigned while they conduct a national recruitment to fill the position.
