Yoko Matsumoto begins a new chapter this month as Arlington's newly selected Libraries Director.

Arlington tapped Matsumoto to helm the public libraries after the recent retirement of Cary Siegfried, who served as the Director of Libraries and Community Services for the past 11 years and spent 24 years total with the city. Matsumoto has 20 years of experience in both libraries and education, including roles the past seven years as Literacy Coordinator, Library Services Manager and Library Administrator for the City of Arlington. Her path includes completing the City's Executive Education Program.

"We are fortunate to have someone of Yoko's vision, enthusiasm and experience to lead our library system," said City Manager Trey Yelverton. "As a champion of reading, literacy and life-long learning, we are confident she will continue the great tradition of excellent library services for our community."

Matsumoto's recent accomplishments include establishing the Literacy House location in downtown Arlington to support adult literacy, collaborating with the Arlington Independent School District to support early childhood literacy as well as implementing unique programs to enhance existing services and increase participation in the Summer Reading Club.

Those initiatives are among examples of how Matsumoto said she strives to make Arlington a place where people want to live, work and play.

"I came to Arlington as a UTA student athlete. I fell in love with the city. My family and I live here and are actively involved in our community," Matsumoto said. "I look forward to serving on the management team in an even greater capacity."

Matsumoto's previous experience includes a two-year stint in the United States Peace Corps in West Africa and six years as a teacher and coach for various public school districts in Texas. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She is also an active member of the American Library Association.

Click here to read to read about the former Director Cary Siegfried's legacy at Arlington Public Libraries.