FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sylvia Walker, Board Member
Phone: 601-968-5807
Email: swalker@jhlibrary.org
Website: jhlibrary.org
Jackson, MS – The Jackson Hinds Library System (JHLS) Board of Trustees is delighted to announce Jeanne Williams as its new Executive Director, effective June 16, 2025.
A native Mississippian, Williams grew up in Lumberton and attended the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, earning a Master of Library and Information Science and a Master of Arts in Anthropology. Her unique background has shaped her approach to leadership, organizational culture, and the library’s role as a community hub. With more than 20 years of experience, including her most recent role as Public and Tribal Library Consultant for the Washington State Library, Williams is known for her servant leadership, commitment to staff morale, and ability to build strong community partnerships.
Williams shared, “I’m honored to join the Jackson Hinds Library System at the start of a new chapter. With a clear vision for the future and a new strategic plan, this is a time of renewed purpose and possibility. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff and Board to bring that vision to life for all the communities we serve. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve with JHLS.” As Executive Director, Williams will work with City and County leaders and community stakeholders to advance the library system’s mission and guide the implementation of the JHLS 2025–2030 Strategic Plan–a comprehensive blueprint for transforming the library system into a true 21st-century resource. The plan’s six key goals include:
- Restoring and Revitalizing Facilities: Upgrading library spaces, planning for a new flagship facility, and enhancing branches with new furnishings, art, and landscaping.
- Timely, Trusted Communications: Launching a new website, improving digital access, and expanding outreach-especially to underserved communities.
- Building a Firm Financial Foundation: Developing a mix of public and private funding, establishing an endowment, and launching new fundraising initiatives.
- Expanding Collections: Reinvesting in materials and resources to inspire lifelong learning and meet the evolving needs of Hinds County residents.
- Creating a Trusted Community Hub: Expanding programming, technology access, and partnerships to ensure libraries remain vibrant centers for learning, culture, and connection.
- Investing in Staff and Leadership: Supporting staff development and leadership to ensure excellent service and stewardship for the community.
Attorney Peyton Smith, who serves as the Board Chair for the Jackson Hinds Library Systems said, “The Board of Trustees is thrilled to welcome Jeanne Williams to the Jackson Hinds Library System. Her expertise in public library service, community building, and state-of-the-art facilities development are just what we need to lead the Library into the future.”
Smith also praised the hard work, dedication and commitment of the search committee. The committee was chaired by Attorney Bob Owens, and also included David Burks, Paul Forster, Othor Cain, and Dionne Nicole Burks. The library system retained the Bradbury Miller firm as a consultant to guide the nationwide search. “Everyone that was involved in this process, we cannot thank you enough,” Smith said.
Board Member Dionne Nicole Burks of Ward 2, who served on the search committee added, “I’m especially excited about the changes underway—upgrading our libraries and launching a bookmobile to reach underserved communities. Our board and staff have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to improve the experience for all patrons, and we’re thrilled to welcome a leader who’s invested in our community and brings innovative, collaborative thinking to the table.
About Jackson Hinds Library System
We provide public library service to urban metropolitan Jackson and Hinds County Mississippi, the state capital. Our goal is to provide quality service through our 12 locations with a focus on community, education, and digital life. We currently operate under our historic 1986 City/County agreement, but our history dates to our original Jackson Carnegie Library founding in 1910.
For more information and updates, visit www.jhlibrary.org