(ROANOKE COUNTY, VA - September 16, 2022) Roanoke County Administrator Richard L. Caywood, P.E. is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Blanton as Director of Libraries. Blanton will assume his new position September 19.
“We are fortunate to gain a leader with a wealth of expertise in managing public libraries and excited for the perspective and knowledge Jim will bring,” said Caywood. “I know he will continue to uphold the strong, positive impact our libraries have in the County and larger community.”
Blanton is coming to Roanoke County from Buncombe County Public Libraries in Asheville, North Carolina where he has served as Library Director since 2018. Prior to his role in Asheville, Blanton served for 20 years in various roles within libraries in Virginia and Kentucky. Blanton brings with him experience in expanding library programs and services, developing community partnerships, library construction projects, and multi-year budgeting.
“I am thrilled to be selected to serve as the Director of Libraries for Roanoke County and to be immersed in its community,” said Blanton. “I look forward to returning to Virginia, working with the library and County staff as well as getting to know the people and families who make what I do possible and fulfilling.”
Blanton holds a Master’s of Public Administration from Old Dominion University, Master’s of Science in Library Science from University of Kentucky, and Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from University of Kentucky.
Blanton follows Shari Henry who served as director for nearly five years.