Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) has appointed Nicholas Higgins as its new chief librarian; he had assumed the role on an interim basis in January.
"As interim chief librarian, Nick has been instrumental in helping us implement the strategic plan and enthusiastically supporting the charge for BPL's borough-wide civic engagement campaign," said BPL President and CEO Linda E. Johnson. "He continues to inspire us, and we look forward to his energetic, thoughtful leadership."
Higgins previously served as BPL's first director of outreach services division. In this role, he focused on developing programs for older adults, immigrants, as well as individuals and families impacted by the justice system and homelessness.
Higgins began his career in 2006 at Brownsville Library as part of the Public Urban Library Service Education (PULSE) program, a joint initiative with the Pratt Institute. Since then, he has worked at various branches including the Cypress Hills, Arlington, McKinley Park, New Lots, Sunset Park, Bay Ridge and Borough Park Libraries.
In addition to his work for BPL, Higgins served as correctional library supervisor for New York Public Library, creating access to public libraries for incarcerated New Yorkers. In 2017, he was named a "Mover and Shaker" by Library Journal for creating an award-winning citywide library-based video visiting service for kids with parents incarcerated on Rikers Island.
"Brooklyn Public Library is special," said Higgins. "It is one of the few spaces in the borough where everyone is welcome, a place as much for quiet reflection as it to share ideas and conversations. I am both honored and humbled to have been selected for this role and look forward to continuing the innovative work of this great institution."
