Citing health & family commitments, Jersey City library director retiring in Sept.

Citing personal health and family commitments, Jersey City Free Public Library Director Terry Hill has announced that he will be retiring next month, working his last day on Friday, September 4th.

By John Heinis/Hudson County View

“This decision comes from the need to focus on my health and care for my family. Three years ago, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. While I remain in remission, other health challenges have surfaced,” he wrote in an email blast.

“I am blessed to still have both of my parents. My mom is 81, and my dad is 84. I am taking this opportunity to be closer to them and help them maintain as much independence as possible.”

Then the deputy director of library services at Durham County Library in Durham, North Carolina, Hill was hired by the then-Mayor Steven Fulop administration in September 2021, as HCV first reported.

His retirement reveal comes shortly after the Five Corners Branch of the Jersey City Free Public Library in Journal Square is closing, with a new permanent location likely necessary, due to costly HVAC issues.

Hill added that during his tenure, two additional library branches have opened, another bookmobile has been added, and smaller branches have expanded hours – growing their staff from 120 employees to 170.

“Circulation increased from 226,164 in 2021 to 745,676 in 2025. In 2025 alone, we hosted 11,242 programs attended by 163,667 people and welcomed 594,713 patrons to our branches. While this growth is noteworthy, none of it would have been possible without the dedicated staff members who show up each day to meet the needs of our community,” he expressed.

“I want to thank the community leaders and elected officials who have continuously supported the work of the Library. Mayor James Solomon and his administration have been active supporters and partners. They have been especially helpful in working toward solutions to the many infrastructure issues caused by decades of deferred maintenance in City buildings.”

The public library is also impacted by Jersey City’s ongoing budget woes, with the City Council poised to vote on an $886.5 million budget with a 15.5 percent tax increase before the end of the month (it was introduced unanimously on July 15th).

Jersey City is facing many challenges. Community leaders and elected officials must work together to find solutions and not use every opportunity for personal or political gain. As a community, we also need to be mindful of the information we consume,” Hill added.

“From social media to outlets more interested in spinning narratives to increase views, we are often inundated with noise that lacks the full truth. There is no denying that the Jersey City Free Public Library is at the heart of our community. It has served this city for more than 130 years and will continue to do so for many years to come.”