LAKEVILLE – Jennifer Jones, Lakeville’s new library director, said that accepting the new role in Lakeville was a decision she made “quickly.”

“When I first met the staff, I sensed that they were a very dedicated, caring, and jovial group and they made me feel at ease instantly,” Jones said. “It was a major reason for me quickly saying yes when offered the position.”

Jones started her career at the Plymouth Public Library, where she worked for fifteen years, before going to Mattapoisett, where she served as the library director during the brunt of the covid pandemic.

“I started in the middle of the pandemic and in the beginning, it was a challenging time to get to know the library users and staff well,” Jones explained.

She then resigned from her position in Mattapoisett to accept the Library Director role in Lakeville.

Jones says that she is excited about the prospect of meeting Lakeville residents. Libraries are important, Jones explained, in part because they are free and accessible to everyone. 

“Libraries have become such a hub for connection in the community because they are spaces in which you don’t have to spend money,” Jones said. “Libraries are places to be social through hobbies like knitting and cribbage, plus little ones learn important social skills during story times.”

Jones currently lives in Middleboro, she said, and she said that as she begins her new role, she wants to collaborate with other groups in Lakeville.

“I hope to explore any collaborations with local organizations and be present at community events to promote the library,” she explained.

Outside of her professional life, Jones said she enjoys listening to local bands, and added that she cares about the environment.

“I am also interested in conservation and sustainability, so I try to live in an environmentally friendly way whenever possible.”

One of her first tasks, and the thing she is most excited about, Jones said, is taking the time to meet and connect with the Lakeville Library community.

“The first months will be spent getting to know the staff and the community,” she said. “I love making new connections through meeting new people.”