PRESS RELEASE

Bordentown, NJ - 9 March 2023 - NJLA is proud to announce the appointment of Brett Bonfield as our new Executive Director, effective March 20, 2023. Brett brings a wealth of experience in library management and advocacy to our organization and we are thrilled to have him help guide NJLA into the future.

Brett has worked in libraries since 2006 in a variety of capacities, including 2 years as an academic librarian and 11 years as the director of two public libraries in New Jersey. Most recently, Brett served as the Chief Operating Officer at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library. Brett has held leadership positions in nonprofits and library organizations including NJLA, the American Library Association, Public Library Association, Freedom to Read Foundation, New Jersey Council for the Humanities, Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, and OhioNet. His experience in advocating for libraries at the local, state, and national levels will be invaluable in advancing the mission of our association.

"We are excited to welcome Brett back to New Jersey and NJLA," said Jessica Trujillo, President of NJLA. “We had a group of very strong applicants so the hiring committee’s decision was difficult, but we felt that Brett had the collaborative spirit and leadership skills that made him stand out. Additionally, his experience working in a variety of different library settings gave him a unique insight into the needs of the diverse community NJLA serves.”
As Executive Director, Brett will be responsible for leading NJLA, working with the Executive Board to set strategic goals, and supervising day-to-day operations. He will also work closely with members, partners, and stakeholders to advocate for libraries and promote their value.

“Successful libraries are integral to New Jersey’s future,” said Brett Bonfield. “NJLA has a 133-year history of bringing library workers and advocates together to support our state, communities, and colleges and universities. I’m eager to work with our members and partners to make New Jersey even stronger.”

Brett received his MS in Library and Information Science from Drexel University. He has presented at various library conferences and was a co-founder of the journal, In the Library with the Lead Pipe. Please join us in welcoming Brett to NJLA.

Link to this article: njla.org/njla-new-executive-director