Canton, MI, December 10, 2025 — The Canton Public Library is saddened to announce the passing of Jean Tabor, an influential leader whose 25 years of service transformed the library and strengthened its connection to the Canton community. Her career reflected unwavering dedication, forward-thinking innovation and a deep belief in the power of public service.
Tabor joined the Canton Public Library shortly after earning her Master of Arts in Library Science from the University of Michigan in 1981. She began as a temporary Adult Librarian at a time when the library operated from the third floor of the township administration building, and she quickly advanced to full-time Librarian in 1982.
Following a series of promotions, Tabor was appointed Interim Director in 1985. She led the library through a pivotal transition with clarity and resolve, and in February 1986, she was officially named Director.
Over the next 22 years, Tabor drove significant expansion, organizational growth and modernization. She championed community-focused programs, strengthened library operations to meet evolving needs, and played a central role in CPL’s transformation from a small, developing institution into a dynamic and widely respected public library.
Among her many contributions, she created the annual Illustrator’s Contest, an imaginative program that invited young adults to illustrate scenes from their favorite novels. The contest quickly became a beloved CPL tradition among Canton teens.
Tabor’s influence reached far beyond Canton. In 2001, she was elected chair of the Public Library Association’s Issues and Concerns Cluster, a role that acknowledged her strong leadership, collaborative insight, and national engagement. In 2007, she received the Michigan Library Association Award of Excellence, honoring her remarkable vision, impact, and lifelong commitment to advancing public library service.
At her retirement celebration in January 2008, the community praised her steady leadership, her commitment to service, and the extraordinary growth the library experienced under her direction. Staff and patrons remembered her as a dedicated director who consistently placed the needs of the community at the top in every decision she made.
The Canton Public Library extends its deepest condolences to her family, friends, former colleagues, and all who were touched by her work. Her legacy continues to shape the library’s mission, values, and service today.
For further information, view the published obituary.