Amanda Dickman
Hear Me Roar
August 2025 Issue
Photography by Cassidy Dunn Photography
Career: Library Director, Beaufort County Library System
Family: daughter and devoted dog mom to Toby
Hometown: Lynchburg, Virginia
Current Town: Beaufort, South Carolina
Amanda, you are the Library Director for Beaufort County, meaning you oversee the operations of all libraries in Beaufort County. This is a huge job, but let’s start at the beginning. How did you come to the realization you wanted to be a librarian?
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of being a connector, helping people find exactly what they need. In college, libraries gave me a quiet place to study, but it was also where I realized I was good at finding information and loved helping others discover answers. That’s when I learned that as a librarian, I could do all those things to guide people in finding answers to their questions.
Were you an avid reader as a child?
Absolutely! My love of reading started early, with my mom taking me to story time and letting me bring home stacks of books. As I grew up, so did my love of books and learning. I spent my allowance at school book fairs and looked forward to summers when I could read for hours. I especially loved participating in the “Book It” program, where every book I read led up to a free personal pan pizza.
Give us your top 3 personal favorite books:
My favorite books tend to be the one I just finished, the one I’m currently reading, and the one I’m excited to start next. But three that are most special to me are:
> Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
> The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson
> Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
What were the top 3 most borrowed titles last month?
1. Strangers in Time by David Baldacci
2. Where the Rivers Merge: A Novel by Mary Alice Monroe
3. The Waiting by Michael Connelly
What are the top 3 all-time checked out books?
Although, I’d love to know what the most popular borrowed book has been over the course of the library’s history, our data doesn’t go back that far!
What would you say to someone who hasn’t been to their library branch
in more than a year?
We’ve missed you! Whether you’re in search of a great read, a burst of inspiration, or just need reliable Wi-Fi and a comfy chair, your library is ready to welcome you back. We’ve got engaging programs, helpful staff, cozy reading nooks, and shelves full of stories waiting to be discovered. Our doors are open, and there’s a bookmark waiting with your name on it.
What has been one of your biggest career challenges in working in the Beaufort County Library System over the last 18 years?
From answering reference questions to driving the bookmobile and now overseeing the entire Library system, I’ve had the opportunity to do it all! My career journey has had more twists than a good mystery, and I’ve loved every chapter. One of the biggest challenges has been keeping up with the changing needs of Beaufort County. That includes embracing new technology, reaching people in creative ways like book lockers and StoryWalks, balancing demand for digital books with rising costs, and staying connected with a population that’s adding new residents daily. Libraries don’t stand still, and learning how to stay responsive, while also delivering great service, has stretched me in the best ways.
There are people out there who love the bookmobile more than the ice cream truck! Does Beaufort County have bookmobile service?
We do! We operate two bookmobiles that travel across Beaufort County, bringing books and library services directly to senior centers, neighborhoods, schools, and local events, helping us reach people who might not have easy access to a branch library.
Tell us about the Beaufort County Library Artist-in-Residence program:
With support from the Public Library Foundation of Beaufort County, this program invites local artists, authors, and performers to share their craft in a dedicated space within our libraries. During their residency, artists lead workshops, host studio hours, and offer hands-on experiences that bring visitors into the creative process. It’s been a rewarding way to inspire and connect established and aspiring artists in our community. We’re excited to announce our fifth Artist-in-Residence very soon.
What are some of your favorite programs offered through
the library for children and adults?
It’s hard to choose a favorite as our event calendar truly has something for everyone! For kids, I especially love our story times. They’re playful and imaginative, and our talented staff do a fantastic job of inspiring a lifelong love of reading. For adults, I am especially fond of our book clubs. With options covering all kinds of genres and styles, it’s a joy to see people come together over stories.
What do you say when people say, “Real books are going away. Everyone gets everything on their phones these days.”
We hear that a lot, but the truth is, many people still love holding a book in their hands. While digital reading has its advantages, there’s something special about turning pages and getting lost in a story uninterrupted by notifications. Phones are certainly convenient, but printed books offer a kind of magic that continues to resonate deeply with readers of all ages.
What is something about the Beaufort County Library System
that everyone needs to know?
Need to fax, scan, or translate a document for free? Want free WiFi, meeting space, or access to digital magazines like The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal? Need live homework assistance 24/7 from Tutor.com? Do you need to borrow a blood pressure kit or get a State Park Pass? We’ve got all of that—and it’s waiting for you.
What is something about YOU that would surprise people?
People are always shocked to discover that I sing and play guitar! Most folks see me in my professional librarian role and can’t picture me on stage with a guitar behind a mic, but music has been and will always be a huge part of my life.
Do you visit libraries when you travel? If so, what’s been your favorite and why?
Of course! My favorite library I’ve visited so far is ImaginOn in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s a unique partnership between a children’s library and a theater. From the interior design to the activity centers, the books to the programs, every corner is thoughtfully crafted to spark creativity and ignite imagination.
What is the next exciting thing coming to Beaufort County Libraries?
There’s always something exciting ahead, but I’m especially looking forward to revamping our website to make it more intuitive and easier to navigate. I am also especially enthusiastic about implementing an improved meeting room reservation system, along with a redesigned event calendar making it easier to explore everything happening at our libraries.
What are you currently ROARING about?
I raise a mighty roar for libraries and reading because libraries are the heartbeat of every community where everyone is welcome, and reading is the spark that unlocks curiosity, fuels imagination, and opens new doors.
More Info About Beaufort County Library System
Access the library calendar and the official website for the libraries:
You can find Beaufort County Library online at the official website: www.beaufortcountylibrary.org. To see what’s happening across our branches, just click on “Events and Features” for a full calendar of programs, classes, and activities
How can I get a library card?
Library cards are free for anyone age 4 and up! To get started, you can pre-register online at beaufortcountylibrary.org, or visit any Beaufort County Library location in person. Be sure to bring a valid photo ID and proof of your current address.
Does Beaufort County Library System have an App?
Hoopla is our all-in-one digital library, offering free access to eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music, TV shows, and graphic novels. To get started, download the Hoopla app or visit hoopladigital.com. Then create a free account using your library card number and enjoy instant streaming or downloads.
Check Out Your Local Library!
Beaufort Branch Library
311 Scott Street, Beaufort
Monday–Thursday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Friday–Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Bluffton Branch Library
120 Palmetto Way, Bluffton, SC
Monday–Thursday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Friday–Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Hilton Head Branch Library
11 Beach City Road,
Hilton Head Island, SC
Monday–Thursday: 9 AM – 7 PM
Friday–Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Port Royal Branch Library
1408 Paris Avenue, Port Royal, SC
Monday–Thursday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Friday–Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
St. Helena Branch Library
6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Rd.,
St. Helena Island, SC
Monday–Thursday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Friday–Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Burton Wells Recreation Center
(holds pickup location)
1 Middleton Recreation Drive Beaufort, SC | Open 24/7
Lobeco Branch Library
1862 Trask Parkway (Hwy 17) Lobeco, SC
Monday–Thursday: 10 AM – 6 PM | Friday–Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM