In honor of Black History Month and the New Orleans Public Library’s 125th anniversary, we’re taking a look back at the Library’s Black leadership.

In 1999, Gertiana Williams became not only the first woman to lead the Library, but also the first person of color to serve as executive director and city librarian. She was appointed to the role under Marc Morial’s administration, who was mayor of New Orleans from 1994 to 2002. Before being formally named city librarian and executive director, Williams served as interim director for more than two years.

The position was left vacant following previous director Dan Wilson’s retirement. Williams was hired in 1990 to be Wilson’s top assistant. When asked about the years-long search for a new director, Library board members said there was not much urgency due to Williams being so competent in the role.

Under Williams leadership, the Library received a $500,000 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Her legacy includes a push to advance access to technology, which resulted in internet-equipped computer labs at Library locations across the city in the early 2000s. Prior to the initiative, all Library locations had some computers, but as many people at the time did not have computers or internet access at home, long lines and waiting times were frequently reported.

“Everyone deserves computer access,” Williams told the Times-Picayune at the 2002 dedication ceremony celebrating the East New Orleans Regional’s new computer lap. “This is a first step toward realizing that goal.”

Williams stepped down as director in 2004 before moving to Texas to head the Forest Hill Library.