Harnett County has named Kimberly VanBeck as the new Director of the Harnett County Public Library System. In this position, VanBeck will oversee the operations of eight library branches.

“I’m so excited and humbled to be embarking on this new journey with Harnett County Public Library,” said VanBeck in a press release. “My heart is in serving rural communities and outreach services, and I truly believe that libraries should be welcoming spaces for everyone - a place to connect, evolve and grow. If you're looking for a spot to read, exciting programs to attend or resources to help you grow, the library has something for everyone. Come discover all that we have to offer and be a part of the Harnett County Public Library spaces.”

VanBeck brings over a decade of library experience, having served in various capacities within the Harnett County Library System. She began in 2014 as Circulation Manager at the Main Branch, advanced to Library Branch Manager I at the Erwin Branch and most recently held the position of Library Branch Manager III at the Dunn Branch.

“We are very happy to welcome Kimberly as the new Director of the Harnett County Public Library System. Kimberly brings a wealth of experience, a passion for community engagement and collaboration, a commitment to innovation and forward-thinking to library services that will help us expand and enhance programs, continue to modernize resources, and ensure the library remains a vital hub for lifelong learning and connection in our community,” said Assistant County Manager Mike Morrow in a press release.

As the Public Library Director, VanBeck will focus on ensuring library services align with community needs, driving the expansion and integration of technology, managing financial planning and overseeing collections and programs, and maintaining high standards of service for residents.

VanBeck holds a Bachelor of Science Management degree and Master of Library and Information Science degree from UNC-Greensboro. She is part of the American Library Association (ALA), the North Carolina Library Association (NCLA) and the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL). She also holds her Public Notary and Library Basics certificate.