The City of West Plains has named Dianna Locke as the new manager of the West Plains Public Library, stepping into the leadership role following the departure of former director Greg Carter.
Locke, who joined the library in May 2024 as a collections development specialist, brings more than 30 years of experience in education and library services. In her short time with the West Plains Public Library, city officials credited her with expanding programming, enhancing collections and strengthening community engagement.
Before her work with the public library, Locke served as librarian and “techbrarian" at West Plains High School and spent more than two decades teaching English across southern Missouri. She holds graduate degrees in educational administration, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership and reading education.
"Taking on the role of manager of the West Plains Public Library is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility," Locke said. "I am committed to building upon the library's strong foundation, continuing its upward trajectory and ensuring that we provide welcoming, high-quality programs, resources and service to everyone in our community."
West Plains Community Services Director Todd Shanks praised Locke's background and vision for the facility.
"We're excited to see where Dianna can take the West Plains Public Library," Shanks said. "She has already made a tremendous impact in a relatively short time through her creativity, leadership and dedication. We're confident she will continue building on the library's success and creating new opportunities for residents of all ages."
Locke's promotion follows the departure of former Library Director Greg Carter, who recently accepted a position as communications manager with Columbia Public Schools.
During his three-year tenure, Carter oversaw significant growth at the library, culminating in the facility being named the 2025 Missouri Library of the Year. Under his leadership, the library secured more than $100,000 in grant funding to expand technology, literacy programs and community outreach, achieving record attendance across its events.
"I'm incredibly grateful to our amazing staff, the Library Board, our community partners and everyone who has supported the library over the past three years," Carter said in a statement regarding his transition. "Together, we've accomplished so much, and I'm proud of all we've achieved. While I'm excited for this new chapter, I'll always be thankful for the friendships, memories and opportunities West Plains has given me."
The West Plains Public Library, 750 W. Broadway, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays.
