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Getting to know people in the community is the major focus of Marcellus "M.T." Turner, executive director of Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL). "I want to find out their needs," Turner says, "and also help them understand who and what we are."
When Turner meets with agencies, businesses and community groups, he shares his wealth of hands-on knowledge about JCPL. Prior to his appointment as executive director in July 2008, he served as both deputy county librarian and director of public services. He was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the library's 10 locations, the bookmobile and the cataloging, acquisitions and collection development departments.
Turner's enthusiasm about the library's outstanding services is contagious. For starters, JCPL's strong collection provides extensive resources for information, education and recreation needs. And the knowledgeable librarians and library staff can answer any question a person may have.
The library's comprehensive website assists patrons in finding materials, informs them about events, and connects them with other resources to further enrich their lives. JCPL also hosts great programs, events, speakers and activities. Children can enjoy story times, adults can learn basic computer skills, patrons can attend public events about a wide variety of topics, and more. Recently, the acclaimed, bestselling author, Anne Lamont, spoke to a full house at the JCPL's InSight & InPerson Distinguished Author Series.
All of these invaluable services are free to the public. "In tough economic times, people turn to libraries," Turner says. "Our usage increases greatly."
Whether times are tough or booming, the library faces the financial challenge of continuing to be a vital resource to the community. Public funding of the library is mill levy based, and within that, property tax based. The last mill levy increase occurred in 1986. Resources provided by the Jefferson County Library Foundation, Friends of the Jefferson County Public Library, volunteers and others are essential to the library's vitality.
Turner enriches his contribution to JCPL with perspectives and ideas gained from his involvement in professional organizations. He is active in the American Library Association, the Library Administration and Management Association, and the Public Library Association. He holds a Master of Library Science from the University of Tennessee.
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Local Vacation — Enjoying community festivals and fairs; showing Red Rocks Amphitheatre to my out-of-town guests.
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Published in the West Chamber Resource Guide 2009 Best of Business Directory & Magazine, an annual publication of The West Chamber Serving Jefferson County.
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