James Hill

James Hill is the Executive Director of Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library in Ohio, a position he has held since February 2017.1 He was honored as the 2021 Ohio Public Librarian of the Year.2 Prior to his current role, Hill worked at Athens County Public Libraries for over 20 years in various positions, including Assistant Director, Deputy Fiscal Officer, and Access Coordinator.1

Hill has a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Ohio University and a Master of Library Science from Kent State University.1 He serves on the Government Relations Committee of the Ohio Library Council, with a term ending in 2025.3

Under Hill's leadership, the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library has implemented several initiatives, including:

1. Going fine-free in March 20172
2. Making all library campuses tobacco-free in August 20172
3. Reopening libraries with new features after COVID-19 closures in 20212

Hill's tenure has also seen successful levy campaigns, capital improvements, expanded specialty collections, and increased staffing opportunities.2