Richland Library leader of 15 years left last year. Here’s who will replace her

The Richland Library has a new leader.

The local public library system’s board of trustees unanimously selected Tamara King as its new executive director, according to a press release. She will take on the role beginning Aug. 24.

King has served as the system’s chief equity and engagement officer since 2021, and before that, she was the community relations director starting in 2014. King also serves on the Board of Directors for the Public Library Association.

King is from Manning, South Carolina, and she becomes the first African American to lead the Richland Library, the release noted.

Prior to working for the Richland Library, King worked as a reporter for WIS-TV before taking communications roles with Richland County and later the state Department of Commerce, according to her LinkedIn.

King graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications and returned 12 years later to obtain a master’s degree in library and information science.

“Tamara King has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and creating accessible spaces for all Richland Library customers,” Erin Johnson, the chair of the Richland Library Board of Trustees, is quoted in the release. “Tamara is deeply rooted in this community, and her expertise in public library leadership and community engagement will further elevate Richland Library’s national reputation for excellence. The board is proud to unanimously appoint her as Richland Library’s next leader.”

Melanie Huggins led the library system for 15 years before leaving last year to take a leadership position with the Girl Scouts of South Carolina. Georgia Coleman has served as the interim executive director during the transition.

The Richland Library operates 13 facilities throughout the county, offering a wide array of technological and creative assets for the public to use. It also offers a host of literary and cultural programs.