Statement
Statement by County Executive Ike Leggett on the Retirement of County Libraries Director Parker Hamilton
For Immediate Release: Monday 12 June
“Parker Hamilton is a remarkable woman and Montgomery County will miss her terribly.
“After almost 37 years of service to the County -- and twelve years as the Director of Public Libraries – she will be retiring and moving back home South, to Alabama.
“Parker began her working life in South Carolina as a domestic worker, and ended it running one of the most innovative, progressive public library systems in America. Prior to earning her BA and MLS from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, she worked as a telephone operator and provided customer service in a pawn shop. In addition to working in public libraries, she has worked in school, military, and business libraries.
“Under Parker’s leadership, our County libraries were able to survive some tough times during the Great Recession when budgets had to be cut to the bone, without sacrificing quality, hours, or customer service. With Parker at the helm, County libraries received 19 National Association of Counties awards, and innovation awards from Urban Libraries Council, including the 2016 Top Innovation Award.
“Plainly put, Parker has made a difference for all County residents. We’ll miss her but we wish her a retirement rich in everything that matters.”
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Release ID: 17-009