Eileen Gillette appointed Executive Director of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL)

November 3, 2025

The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board today announced the appointment of Eileen Gillette as the new Executive Director. Gillette has served as Interim Executive Director since July, following the appointment of Ben Hyman as Vancouver Public Library’s Chief Librarian and Chief Executive Officer.

Vancouver Island Regional Library Announces Appointment of Executive Director Eileen Gillette

November 3, 2025

Nanaimo, BC –  The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Eileen Gillette as Executive Director, effective November 1, 2025.

Gillette has served as Interim Executive Director since July and previously held the role of Director of Library Services, Planning and Integration with VIRL. She brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience in the public and non-profit library sectors, including key roles at both VIRL and the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL).

Gillette is recognized for her strategic vision, community leadership, and commitment to equitable access to library services. She has played a central role in advancing VIRL’s strategic renewal initiatives and strengthening partnerships across Vancouver Island’s diverse communities.

“Eileen’s leadership, insight, and dedication make her exceptionally well poised for continued success on behalf of the communities we serve,” said Erin Hemmens, Chair of the VIRL Board of Trustees. “As we enter our 90th year, the Board has full confidence in her ability to ensure stability and continued excellence as the organization moves forward.”

The Board has also appointed Jennifer Windecker as Deputy Executive Director. Windecker held the role of Interim Deputy Executive Director since July, and was formerly the Director of Library Services, Operations and User Experience. She brings more than 20 years of public library leadership experience at VIRL and GVPL, she is widely respected for her operational excellence, user-centered centred service design, and commitment to staff development.

These appointments reflect the Board’s strong support for VIRL’s strategic direction and confidence in the leadership team guiding it. VIRL remains focused on providing exceptional library services, fostering innovation, and strengthening community connections across all 39 branches it serves.

“It’s a meaningful and energizing time for VIRL,” said Gillette. “We have an incredible team, dedicated staff, and a shared commitment to strengthening communities across Vancouver Island and coastal B.C. I look forward to building on our momentum and continuing to deliver the high-quality library services throughout our region”

Gillette succeeds Ben Hyman, who departed VIRL in July 2025.

(Via Vancouver Island Regional Library)