In November, the City of Long Beach announced that Director of Library Services Glenda Williams will retire with her last day as the head of the Long Beach Public Library set for December 30, 2021. We at the Long Beach Public Library Foundation are honored to have worked closely with Ms. Williams since her appointment to her current role in 2009. As a true champion of literacy, she has led the Library as it has become an innovative center of education. Under her direction, the Library evolved significantly to meet the many changing needs of the residents who depend on its services.
Ms. Williams has worked at the Long Beach Public Library for 40 years. Her incredible tenure began when she was hired as a page, one of the Library’s entry-level roles. Through the years she held various positions and worked at all of the City’s 12 public libraries before she was ultimately appointed Director of Library Services. One of the Library Foundation’s first major projects with Ms. Williams came in 2014 with the grand opening of the Studio at the Main Library. The new makerspace featured 3D printers, design software, and other design tools funded by our donors. With the Library Foundation’s support, the program would expand through the years with new advanced technology for additional STEM and arts educational opportunities. The Long Beach Public Library was one of the first library systems in this region to introduce a facility with advanced technology for patrons to learn in and enjoy. It was indicative of Ms. Williams’ determination to create a library system for the 21st century.
Under Ms. Williams’ leadership, two new world-class libraries opened in Long Beach; the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library in 2016 and the Billie Jean King Main Library in 2019. These libraries are outfitted with the latest educational tools and technology for all members of the community, no matter their age or abilities, to enjoy all that the Library has to offer. The Library Foundation is proud to support programs and resources at these libraries, by raising more than $1 million in a campaign for the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library, and more than $3.3 million in a campaign for the Billie Jean King Main Library.
In 2017, the Long Beach Public Library was awarded the National Medal for Museum of Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for museums and libraries. The Library Foundation is honored to have been a part of making this award possible and helping to bring Ms. Williams’ vision for the Library to life.
We will miss working with Ms. Williams and wish her the best. All that she helped create at the Library will benefit Long Beach residents for generations to come.
