BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor
Ms. Darlene Harris had decided at an early age that she wanted to become a Social Worker. But, a series of events in her life changed her plans and provided her with a career in which she excelled.
After graduating from Jefferson High School, she enrolled at the University of South Florida in pursuit of that goal. Her plans were interrupted with the birth of her son. Instead of giving up, Ms. Harris simply changed directions.
She was hired as a Library Assistant Trainee in 1982. She successfully managed being a mother, working, and continuing her education. Ms. Harris obtained her B.S.W. degree from the University of South Florida in Social Work. But by that time, she had discovered a different path to follow.
“In almost record time, she completed her studies and soon after became a Librarian for the Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System. This was a defining moment in her life. She proved herself capable and was progressively promoted to the rank of Senior Library/ Site Coordinator,” Mrs. Carrie Hurst, her friend and former co-worker said.
While others may have been content with the double promotion, Ms. Harris was only getting started. She continued to excel and became a trailblazer.
She became the first Principal Librarian to manage three libraries: the West Tampa Library, Robert W. Saunders Library, and the then College Hill Library. This earned her the title of “Urban Library Queen,” a title she has maintained until retirement.
Ms. Harris became an icon in the East Tampa community as she continued to open doors. She is credited with helping to establish the Ada T. Payne Friends of the Urban Libraries, creating a new system wide Adult Programming Coordinator, with uniform adult programs throughout the system.
She also managed to return to school at the University of South Florida, where she obtained her Master’s Degree in Library Science.
During a career that spans 31 years, Ms. Harris has worked at nearly all 28 libraries in the county and left them better than she found them. She is the recipient of numerous awards and commendations.
During her tenure, Ms. Harris has served as a mentor and role model for members of the community. She has also traveled nationally and internationally including two trips to Senegal, West Africa.
A Tampa native, Ms. Harris is the youngest of five children born to Jonas and Maggie Harris. She has one son, Tony, and enjoys reading, traveling, and meeting people.
She is a member of Exciting Central Tampa Baptist Church, and now that her time is her own, she plans to take the days as they come. She officially retired on June 15th.
Anyone who would like to send Ms. Harris well wishes can email her at msdee004@gmail.com.
