Judith Cutright Named New Overton Library Director

The Overton County Commission has appointed Judith Cutright as the county’s new library director.

Library Board Chair Jimmy Thompson said Cutright’s experience as Clay County’s Library Director for 27 years made her the right fit.

“I think she will help the Overton County Library,” Thompson said. “She’s got a lot of experience, and the people in Nashville and the region library give her high marks on grants and dealing with people. So she comes well recommended.”

Thompson said Cutright will begin as director as soon as final paperwork is completed. Thompson said he expects a smooth transition in leadership since Cutright understands the importance of rural library systems.

“Rural America is entirely different than urban America,” Thompson said. “We thought that she would understand what people expected. We had people apply from out of town and out of state, but this lady understands the Upper Cumberland and that makes a big difference.”

Cutright replaces Cynthia Julian-Simmons who served as director for some 12 years. Thompson said a total of seven candidates were interviewed for the job.

“We thought we were lucky to get somebody with that much experience and well qualified,” Thompson said. “We talked to her and had an interview. We just thought she was the best person for the job. We had some people that applied who were well-educated and good people. They just didn’t have the experience.”