Glenda Williams, Long Beach’s library service director since 2009, will retire in December, the city announced Tuesday, Nov. 23.
Williams has worked in the city’s Department of Library Services for 40 years and has worked at all 12 library locations, a city statement said.
“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 in a statement. “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.”
Her career started in 1981 as a library page, someone who put books back where they need to be, the city statement said. Since then, Williams has worked as a clerk, general librarian, department librarian, bureau manager and director.
During her career, she helped the city transition into the digital age and bring high-speed Wi-Fi to the library. She also oversaw the planning of three new libraries, the city said: the Mark Twain Library in 2007, Michelle Obama Library in 2016 and the Billie Jean King Main Library in 2019.
In 2017, she received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service from the Institute for Museum and Library Services.
“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.”
Williams’ last day will be Dec. 30 and the city will conduct a national search for her replacement.
