Zoe Williams
Zoe Williams is motivated by the satisfaction of a job well done, and by the knowledge that she has had an impact on someone, even one as small as the joy that comes from a cheerful conversation.
Williams’ work at the University Park Public Library is making a life-long difference for the city’s youngest readers. Her initiatives as youth services librarian have included the launch of University Park’s Family Place Libraries and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten programs, which encourage early childhood literacy and family engagement while building essential reading skills.
Outside the library, Williams volunteers with University Park’s Youth Advisory Commission and the Highland Park Literary Festival. This year, she served as a member of the festival committee, which puts on the annual LitFest celebration.
“I love being a part of showing students the many ways writing and stories are a part of their lives, whether it’s through a song, movie, or a book,” Williams said.
Williams began her career as a librarian at an international school in Chiang Mai, Thailand. She worked as a youth librarian at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library in downtown Dallas for three years before coming to University Park.
Williams, who started in her role as youth services librarian in 2018, said her proudest accomplishment was receiving an Employee of the Year award from the city of University Park in 2023.
“I was nominated by my coworkers for the award,” she explained, “and it means a lot to me that my work ethic and attitude has had a positive influence on them.”
What (or who) motivated you to get involved in the community?
I first heard about LitFest through HPISD librarians, and Kortney Nelson (the director of Highland Park Library) also serves on the committee and encouraged me to join. It has been the perfect way to support the love of reading and learning in the community, and it has been a joy to meet so many more fellow book lovers as well!
What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
I worked as a cashier at a grocery store for most of high school and college, checking out groceries and helping customers find items. In some ways, it’s not that different from working at a library desk! I learned to greet customers by name and how to have short but meaningful conversations. Similar to figuring out a kid’s reading interests, I got to know the regulars and what they usually bought (like the lady who came in each week for several bunches of bananas!)
What’s on your bucket list?
I have visited 39 countries and would like to make it to 40 before I turn 40. I have traveled to every continent except for Antarctica, but something closer to home is probably more realistic for that 40th country!
Where do you see yourself and/or your career 10 years from now?
I would be perfectly happy to still be a public librarian — I truly love this field and how I get to work on a variety of projects and interact with so many different people each day. I may be interested in exploring positions adjacent to libraries at some point, such as working for a publishing company or book distributor.
What was your toughest business or personal challenge?
As the mom of two young children, learning how to balance my career and family life has been challenging but rewarding. Being at work helps me appreciate time with my children even more, and I’m proud knowing that they are watching me pursue career goals and working in a role focused on serving and helping others.
What was your “lightbulb moment” that led you to your career?
I originally chose Public Relations as my major because I wanted to work in the non-profit realm. I did a Public Relations internship at my hometown’s library, and they needed help in the children’s department as well. I discovered that I was having so much more fun in the children’s area than I was fundraising for the library, and knew that I needed to pursue being a children’s librarian.
What’s a fun fact that someone wouldn’t know about you?
I love college football, and while I cheer loudest for the Razorbacks (I grew up in Fayetteville) and almost as loudly for the Sooners (my husband is a fifth-generation Sooner,) I enjoy following the sport as a whole and seeing what’s going on in each conference. The spirit and passion college football fans have for “their” team is unmatched and makes it so much fun. Also, I’ve never read a book more than once!
What would you tell an 18-year-old you?
You will accomplish every goal you have for your life if you have the courage to pursue it. Do something every day (or nearly every day) that intimidates you — it’s the hardest thing to do until it’s done.
If you could buy a book (or rent a movie) for your neighbor, what would it be and why?
This is such a hard question because it’s impossible for me to choose just one book. I would probably get to know them first and see what they’re interested in or what they already enjoy reading, and go from there.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
Strive to maintain positive relationships with coworkers and community members, as you never know when your path may cross theirs again later in your career. Your reputation is one of your most valuable assets, so make sure to always demonstrate integrity, reliability, and respect.
Is there anything else you think we should know about you?
I twirled baton for 12 years, from middle school through all of college. I still enjoy picking up my baton from time to time. It’s no wonder I’m such a football fan after attending nearly every game for so many years!
