In June 2004, Longwood University’s Board of Visitors unanimously approved the naming of the Library in honor of the University's 22nd president, Dr. Janet D. Greenwood, in recognition of her significant contributions to Longwood. Dr. Greenwood obtained the funding for the Library building and served as president from 1981 to 1987. She was the first female president of Longwood and the first female president of a 4-year, state supported institution in Virginia.