Welcome to Newbern City Library.
220 E Main St., Newbern, TN 38059
(731) 627-3153
Cecily Lovell
Library Director
clovell@cityofnewbern.org
Cecily Lovell became Director of the Newbern City Library in 2025, returning to a place that first shaped her during her high school years. Before joining the library, she spent many years as Advertising Director at the State Gazette, where she built strong ties to the community through media and communications. Over time, the demands of the job left her seeking a new path, and when the library began its search for a director, it felt like a full-circle moment. With a deep love of reading, learning, and community engagement, Cecily saw the role as the perfect opportunity to combine her skills with her passions.
In her position, Cecily manages daily library operations, oversees staff, develops programming, writes grant proposals, and works closely with the community to expand access to knowledge and resources. She especially enjoys creating programs that inspire curiosity and help the library serve as a welcoming hub for all ages.
A devoted reader, Cecily gravitates toward fantasy and science fiction. When not at the library, she enjoys spending time with her family, often taking weekend trips to national parks to camp, swim, and hike. Being outdoors allows her to reset and reconnect with both nature and her loved ones.
One fun fact about Cecily: she’s crafty at heart. Give her a hot glue gun and a bundle of faux flowers, and she can turn them into something delightful—proof that creativity and imagination extend beyond bookshelves.
Kelly Thompson
Assistant Director
Youth Services kthompson@cityofnewbern.org
Kelly Thompson grew up in Newbern and has called it home for most of her life. As a child, she spent countless hours at the Newbern City Library, building fond memories that now inspire her work. Joining the staff allowed her to come full circle, creating the same sense of magic for today’s young readers that she once experienced herself.
In her role as Assistant Director and Youth Services Coordinator, Kelly designs programs for children of all ages, manages social media outreach, and brings energy to the library’s youth activities. Of all her responsibilities, she especially enjoys reading aloud to children and sharing stories that spark their imaginations.
Kelly is an avid reader with a special love for fantasy and mystery. Some of her favorite authors include J.R.R. Tolkien, and her recent favorite read is The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker.
Outside the library, Kelly enjoys watching new movies and discovering fresh stories on screen. She is also a traveler at heart, having visited China and South Korea, with hopes of adding more destinations to her list.
Kay Gregson
Librarian
newbernlibrary38059@gmail.com
Kay Gregson joined the Newbern City Library in April 2016, seeking part-time work that aligned with her lifelong love of books. Her role quickly became more than just a job—it became a way to connect with people and share the joy of reading.
At the library, Kay assists patrons by checking materials in and out, helping visitors find the books they’re searching for, and keeping the library tidy and welcoming through light cleaning. She enjoys the daily interaction with community members and being surrounded by stories of every kind.
Kay has a broad love for reading and especially enjoys the works of author Dean Koontz.
When she’s not at the library, she spends much of her time caring for animals, which has always been one of her passions.
One fun fact about Kay: she regularly feeds the stray cats behind the library and can never resist the smiles of little children—she admits she’s a soft touch for both furry friends and young readers.