Phil Neilson

I joined the Mary H. Weir Public library team in July 2026. I’m delighted to be able to serve as Library Director.

Originally from Alberta, Canada, I’ve called the United States home since high school, and I live here in the Ohio Valley with my wife and our two children.

Before I became a librarian, I spent a decade teaching middle school English — an experience that still shapes how I think about libraries and the readers who use them. I hold a Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Alberta, and I came to Weirton from New Mexico, where I served as a Youth Services Librarian, overseeing youth collections and building programming for ages 0 to 18.

I’m also something of a technology enthusiast. I helped develop my previous library’s makerspace, and I enjoy working with 3D printers, laser engravers, and just about anything involving web development.

Away from the library, you’ll find me reading, hiking, or playing guitar.

It’s an honor to join this library in its hundredth year. If I can help with anything — or if you just want to say hello — please call the library at (304) 797-8510 or email me at philip.neilson@wvlc.lib.wv.us. I’d love to meet you.