Executive Director, Jefferson County Public Library
Bradbury Miller Associates congratulates the Jefferson County Public Library on their next Director, Jessica Styons.
Jessica Styons was most recently the Director of the Jefferson Parish Library and is a Ph.D. candidate in Organizational Leadership, where her research focuses on how public library directors sustain resilience in the face of increasing complexity and public pressure. With three decades of experience across major library systems—including the Jefferson Parish Library, New Orleans Public Library, East Baton Rouge Parish Library, the State Library of Louisiana, Maricopa County Library District, and Phoenix Public Library—she has led large, multi-branch organizations through periods of transformation, growth, and community change.
Jessica is known for advancing access-driven initiatives, including fine-free policies, expanded community partnerships, and innovative services that position libraries as essential social infrastructure—contributing to meaningful growth in community engagement and participation. She has also developed and delivered statewide leadership training and presented at regional and national conferences on innovative library services, well-being, and civic partnerships.
She is particularly passionate about reducing barriers to access, strengthening community connections, and empowering staff as partners in service. Her work centers on the belief that libraries are foundational to strong, connected communities—whether through physical spaces, outreach, or evolving “beyond books” services.
