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Greenville-Butler County Public Library Director Kevin Pearcey, this week’s Greenville Advocate Hero of the Week, is driving the library’s evolution into the digital age while expanding its community programs. Under Pearcey’s leadership, the library has introduced a variety of new offerings for all ages, from toddler story times to STEM (science, technology, engineering, math)  kits for children and Elder Care kits for caregivers.

“We’ve got a number of good people here and they understand that we’re here to help people,” Pearcey said. “Also, I have a board of trustees that fully supports me. They’ve always embraced any type of change that we want to try.”

Vivian McGowin, the Chairman of the Board, notes that Pearcey is a dedicated director and always strives to keep library services current 

“Because Kevin was born and raised in Greenville, he loves his community and has a desire to see it be the best that it can be,” McGowin said. “We are so grateful and appreciative of his talent in meeting the needs of not only Greenville but all of Butler County.”

Pearcey, a Greenville native who became the library director in 2011, has used his diverse background to breathe new life into the institution. He graduated from Greenville High School in 1990 and served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS George Washington before embarking on a career in journalism and public relations. 

His transition to library leadership was a natural progression, combining his love for community involvement and his experience with technology.

“In a way, it’s almost like the newspaper business,” Pearcey said. “You don’t really know what you’re going to be doing on a daily basis, but you also have the opportunity to interact with people and help people.”

The approach has been hands-on, particularly with the library’s children’s programs. Pearcey brought in a “Science Guy” to teach kids about science and arranged for an interactive program featuring live animals, including snakes and hedgehogs. He also initiated programs like “Music and Movement” and “Toddler Tuesday,” designed to engage the youngest members of the community. 

Sandy Rodgers, a circulation clerk who works closely with Pearcey, praised his commitment to the community.

“He really cares about the community; he’s constantly looking for new programs and coming up with new ideas,” Rodgers said. “He’s just a really good person to work for. We all love him.”

Pearcey is also known for his active involvement in the programs he creates. 

“Music and Movement is his baby,” Rodgers said. “He dances and moves with the kids. He’s involved in almost every program that he starts. It’s not like he just says, ‘Okay, we’re going to do this.’ He’s very thoughtful about finding ways to reach out and involve the community.”

Pearcey’s is helping the library adapt to the changing needs of the community while maintaining its role as a vital resource for education and connection. With a focus on innovation and community engagement, the library director  is working to make a difference, one program at a time.