Patricia Dew

Brunswick County recently announced its newest library director, Patricia Dew.

Dew brings more than 29 years of experience in libraries to the Brunswick County team. Before she was hired in January 2022, Dew worked for the New Hanover County Public Library (2012-2022) and the Durham County Library (2001-2012).

Alongside her work in public libraries, Dew also serves as a member of the U.S. Army Reserve.

“It has always been my dream to become a library director,” Dew said in a news release. “I have loved working in public libraries ever since I was a teenage volunteer. I enjoy helping people find the knowledge or information they need, whether that’s through lifelong learning, childhood education, or just providing entertainment for leisure.”

Dew joins Deputy Director Haynes Brigman in overseeing library operations across all five branch locations.

As director, Dew is responsible for creating and pursuing initiatives for the maintenance and betterment of the library, building and maintaining public and governmental relations, preparing and overseeing budget processes, ensuring compliance with laws, strategic planning and developing library service policies, according to the release.

“I have many goals I would like to achieve here in Brunswick County,” Dew said in the release. “I want to better serve the residents of Brunswick County as we move into a new era of growth and technological advancement. I aim to grow the system, improve accessibility, foster a welcoming environment in each of the branch locations, and increase the 24/7 access for resources through the use of e-books and online services.”

Some of Dew’s accomplishments prior to working for Brunswick County include the design and planning of the new Pine Valley Branch of the New Hanover County Public Library. 

Dew holds a bachelor's degree in music with a concentration in music education from the University of North Carolina Greensboro and a master's in library science with a concertation in public libraries from N.C. Central University.