Sawyer Free Library Hires New Head of Youth Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sawyer Free Library Promotes Meg O’Neill to Head of Youth Services

GLOUCESTER, MA — The Sawyer Free Library is proud to announce the promotion of Meg O’Neill to the position of Head of Youth Services. O’Neill, who has served the Library and the Gloucester community with distinction, will now supervise the team responsible for library programs, collection resources, and services for Gloucester’s children, young adults, and families. O’Neill brings extensive experience in children’s librarianship, community outreach, and innovative program design to her new supervisory role. During her tenure at the Sawyer
Free Library as Community Librarian, she has been instrumental in expanding engagement, fostering diverse community partnerships, and creating inclusive learning spaces.

O’Neill holds a Master of Library and Information Science with a specialization in Public Library Services from the University of California, Los Angeles; a Master of Arts with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Studies from Dartmouth College; and a Bachelor of Arts in English, with minors in French and Sociology, from Bishop’s University in Quebec,
Canada.

“Meg’s passion for youth development, combined with her innovative approach to modern library services, makes her the perfect fit for this position,” said Library Director Jenny Benedict. “We are thrilled to see her step into this well-deserved role.”

As Head of Youth Services, O’Neill will supervise the department’s dedicated staff and the delivery of year-round educational and recreational programs. Her immediate priorities include expanding early literacy services with a special focus on supporting vulnerable families, strengthening ties with local youth providers, and designing dynamic activities that reflect the evolving needs of the community.

“I am incredibly honored to step into this new role at the Sawyer Free Library,” said O’Neill. “Gloucester has a vibrant, creative community of young people, and I look forward to working alongside our talented team to provide them with the resources, programs, and welcoming spaces they need to thrive, discover, and cultivate a lifelong
love of learning.”

About the Sawyer Free Library

The Sawyer Free Library has served Gloucester residents of all ages for over 175 years, providing equal access to resources that meet the community’s evolving cultural, educational, and informational needs. Now open in its newly renovated, expanded, and modernized home, the Library is entering an exciting new chapter—enhancing its ability
to offer innovative resources, nurture creativity, and foster community connection. All programs and exhibitions at the Sawyer Free Library remain free and open to the public. For more information about the Library’s public services for children and young adults, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org.

Media Contact:
Christine Armstrong
Sawyer Free Library
646.644.5037