The Trustees of the Madison Parish Library have announced that Trustee Jacqueline Landers has been named Vice Chair/Chair-Elect of the Trustees Section of the Louisiana Library Association.
“This milestone is a testament to the joy uncovered by community service, through dedication and recognition of the importance of public libraries,” the trustees said in a statement.
Landers’ appointment was made during the 100th Annual Louisiana Library Association and Southeastern Library Association Conferences, held on March 20, 2025, in Baton Rouge. She will begin her term as Chair on July 1, 2026. “I will assist with reviewing and writing policies for Louisiana’s public libraries,” Landers said of her new role.
In addition to this appointment, Landers was honored with the James O. Modisette Award for Public Library Trustees. She became the first woman from Madison Parish to receive the award. The Modisette Award is among the highest honors in the Louisiana library community, recognizing exceptional contributions to public library advocacy and service.
“I’m truly honored to be the recipient of the Modisette Award,” said Landers. “This opportunity is a true blessing, and I am so grateful.”
She expressed heartfelt thanks to Madison Parish Library Director Kizzie Bynum-Wilmore for her leadership, the parish library staff for their dedication, and her sister, Commocobreo Barnett, for unwavering support.
Looking ahead, Landers said she anticipates a positive impact on libraries. “This community service journey will be a beacon of growth and ambition, reflecting the core values our libraries render to many communities,” she said.
In their statement, the Trustees of the Madison Parish Library said, “As she transitions into this pivotal leadership role, we acknowledge the dedication and expertise Library Trustees will continue to bring to our state.”
Landers is also serving as the Trustee Chair of the Modisette Award Committee, where she will help select the next recipient of the award she previously received.
Another Madison Parish Library staff member, Rachel Johnson, is currently the Vice Chair/Chair-Elect of the newly established Diversity Section of the Louisiana Library Association. Her term as Chair also begins on July 1, 2026.
Besides her work as a library trustee, Landers is a rural carrier for the United States Postal Service, where she’s worked since 2010 and is a native of Tallulah.
Jacqueline Landers