May 24, 2022 – The James Blackstone Memorial Library has appointed Katy McNicol as its next director. McNicol will succeed Karen Jensen who will be retiring in June after nearly ten years of leadership.

McNicol, who currently holds the position of Associate Librarian for Development and Outreach, first joined the Blackstone in 2010 as Reference Librarian. Her list of accomplishments since then includes helping to establish the library's MakerLab (now Library of Things) with funds from the Friends of the Blackstone Library, developing relationships with local organizations and businesses, writing and managing various grants to expand the library's programs and services, and planning and executing multiple fundraising events and campaigns for the benefit of the library. She has also helped steer a team of staff through training and execution to develop the Blackstone's Strategic Framework for the future.

Beth Law, President of the Blackstone's Board of Trustees, said, "Katy is a positive and energetic leader. Her warmth, collegial style, practical approach to problem solving, and passion for connecting the Blackstone to the Branford community have earned Katy the esteem of the library's staff, board, and donors. I'm excited that after completing a nationwide search, we found the best candidate within our own historic building. The board is excited to work with Katy as our new director and confident that the Blackstone will thrive under her guidance in the years to come."

McNicol said, "The Blackstone is a great library, with a fantastic staff, serving a wonderful community. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the library into the future, building on the solid foundation that Karen has established. I want the Blackstone to continue to be a dynamic and vibrant place where all of Branford feels welcome and I'm excited about working with the staff, board, and all of Blackstone's stakeholders to help make that happen."

McNicol has an MLIS from Southern Connecticut State University, and a BS in Marketing from Florida Atlantic University.

The Blackstone Library is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Saturday, June 25 from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm, on the Blackstone lawn. There will be a variety of family activities on offer, plus a complimentary picnic lunch and blanket giveaways (while supplies last), and live music. You are invited to come join the fun and meet the new Blackstone director.

"I look forward to seeing everyone there," said McNicol.

For more information and a schedule of events for the day, visit blackstonelibrary.org/jbml125.