Richland Library’s new Executive Director announced by Board of Trustees
July 28, 2025
The Richland Library Board of Trustees has appointed Tamara King as the organization’s next executive director, effective August 24, 2025.
This unanimous selection follows a comprehensive, nationwide search led by Bradbury Miller Associates and the Richland Library Board of Trustees, conducted after the 15-year tenure of former executive director, Melanie Huggins. King, a Manning native who was named one of “South Carolina’s 12 Black Leaders to Know” by The Post and Courier in 2024, will become the first African American to lead the nationally recognized library system.
“Tamara King has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and creating accessible spaces for all Richland Library customers,” said Erin Johnson, Chairperson of the Richland Library Board of Trustees. “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.”
King brings over a decade of library leadership experience to the role, most recently serving as Richland Library’s Chief Equity and Engagement Officer. In that position, she spearheaded programs that expanded access and belonging, including the Let’s Talk Race Curriculum, sensory-friendly programming and accessibility-focused spaces that reflect the diversity of Richland County.
She holds a Master of Library and Information Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina, along with Accreditation in Public Relations (APR). With more than 25 years of experience spanning public libraries, broadcast journalism, and strategic communications, King has positioned herself as a trusted leader in equity-centered engagement and public relations.
Tamara King serves on the Board of Directors for the Public Library Association, was recognized as a 2019 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, a 2024 Riley Fellow of Furman University’s Diversity Leadership Initiative, and is a nationally sought-after facilitator and public speaker.
About Richland Library
Awarded the National Medal in 2017 by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Richland Library is a vibrant, contemporary organization that provides resources and information that advance the Midlands. Offering state-of-the-art technology, a variety of literary and cultural programs and 13 bustling facilities located throughout the county, Richland Library provides a truly customizable, modern library experience for residents and visitors alike.
