After 42 years of service Richard Greene is stepping down from his position as Executive Director of the Mid-Mississippi Regional Library System. Greene stated that he has seen many changes and advancements in those years, especially in the area of technology.
He said, “We’ve gone from a rubber stamp date due checkout to an integrated database system where we check out books to our customers, and our customers have access through them Mississippi Library Partnership, of which we are a member, to 52 different libraries in the state.” Those include the MSU and MUW libraries, and gives patrons access to 3.4M different titles. He added that there is a weekly courier service brings and picks up books with no cost to the customer.
He added that they still offer the traditional library services, but have transitioned with technology. For instance, in years past the library might purchase a set of encyclopedias which would very quickly be out of date. Now the library purchases electronic databases which are updated monthly. Those resources can be accessed through the library website with a valid library card.
Greene added that none of the libraries are what they used to be, pointing out that the Winston County Library has expanded twice during his tenure. He has also seen that elected officials have become more supportive and willing to invest in the needs of their constituents.
When asked about the importance of a local library to a community, Greene stated that the library changes lives, beginning with story hours and summer reading programs, and the many other services that are offered.
After 42 years Greene said it is time to let someone else take over, as he lends a helping hand. He said there is a new generation, with more energy, and a better grasp of electronics and technology.
Beth Edwards, Branch Librarian for the Winston County Library, had high praise for Greene, stating that he was the best boss anyone could ever have.
She said, “His focus is his employees, his staff, and providing services to the community, but he treats his staff like his family, and you know that he has your back, no matter what.”
