Cumberland County has announced the selection of Heather Hall as director of the Cumberland County Public Library. 

Hall steps into the role following Assistant County Manager Faith Phillips, who has served in a dual capacity as both assistant county manager and library director since her promotion in October 2024. Prior to that, Phillips was the library director, with Hall serving as her deputy. With three years of leadership experience as deputy director and two years as the learning and innovation librarian, Hall emerged as the top candidate and was selected to lead the department after a nationwide competitive recruitment and interview process.

“Heather is a proven dynamic and forward-thinking leader who brings passion, innovation and strategic insight to every facet of her work,” said Assistant County Manager Faith Phillips in a press release. “She understands the vital role libraries play in building strong, inclusive communities, and I am confident she will continue moving the department forward with excellence.”

Hall brings over a decade of experience in public library administration, project management and community service. As deputy director, she led efforts to streamline operations, enhance internal systems and expand community-centered programming across Cumberland County’s eight library branches. Under her leadership, the library secured over $276,000 in grant funding, launched several new programs, created new inclusive spaces and forged strategic partnerships with local health, education and nonprofit agencies.

“Heather brings a deep knowledge of our library system and a clear commitment to public service,” said County Manager Clarence Grier in a press release. “She has earned the respect of her peers and the community, and I’m confident she will continue to strengthen the library’s role as a vital resource for Cumberland County residents.”

Prior to joining Cumberland County in 2020, Hall served as executive director of a national nonprofit focused on improving services for families of children with special needs and young adults transitioning into adulthood. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Tennessee, has completed the Haslam College of Business’s Consortium of Social Enterprise Effectiveness program and is an active member of the American Library Association, Public Library Association, and North Carolina Library Association.

“I am honored to serve as the next Cumberland County Public Library Director,” Hall said in a press release. “Our libraries are cornerstones of opportunity and connection in this community, and I look forward to working alongside our talented staff to ensure every resident feels welcomed, supported and inspired when they walk through our doors.”

Hall assumed her new role on June 29, 2025.