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. “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 Mike Morrow, Assistant County Manager.

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.

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

Harnett County is one of the fastest growing counties in North Carolina with approximately 142,000 residents. Harnett's tagline of "Strong Roots, New Growth," describes a county in transition, one that values its rural agricultural heritage while also embracing new growth and industry. Harnett County is optimally located just between North Carolina's capital city of Raleigh and the internationally recognized Research Triangle Park to the north, and the nation's largest military installation in Fort Liberty to the south. 

For more information, contact Community Relations Director, Desiree Patrick at publicinfo@harnett.org or (910) 893-7555.