James A. Dillard is the Librarian Media Specialist at Sawmills Elementary School. Mr. Dillard hails from Wilkes County, North Carolina. He graduated from Western Carolina University with a Bachelor's Degree in Communications and Electronic Media. Shortly after graduating from WCU he earned his Masters Degree in Library Science and Media Specialties from Appalachian State University. Upon completion of graduate school Mr. Dillard was employed by Person County Schools from 2012 through 2016. Mr. Dillard joined the Sawmills school family in June 2016. In addition to being Media Specialist, Mr. Dillard is also the Testing Coordinator, a liason to the county Technology Department and coaches the Battle of the Books team.

At home, Mr. Dillard is an avid reader and writer. His other hobbies include painting, hiking, swimming, gardening, and playing music.