Library Names New Interim Director

Many library patrons were surprised Tuesday morning to hear that Manchester District Library director James Miller had been let go by a unanimous decision at the board meeting the previous night. Miller had served as library director since August of 2013. When asked to comment on the director’s dismissal, Gary Seguin, president of the Manchester District Library Board stated, “The Manchester Library Board decided that the present director was not a good fit for the library and so will move forward without him.  The board thanks the Director for his service.”

Kathleen Dimond, a Manchester resident for the last 32 years, is taking over as interim director with the full support of the staff. Dimond has worked at the library since 1998; most recently as circulation supervisor, a position she’ll continue to hold in addition to the interim directorship.

Dimond stated that the library will move forward with everything it is doing now and will continue to introduce new programs. Recently the library hosted author Jim Glenn and started the read to a dog program. Plans for the near future include bringing more authors, holding a micro-brewing class, adding board games into the system for check-out and, in the spring, having a bee-keeper come in to talk about bee-keeping. Additionally, Ms. Karen will be expanding the children’s program.

Dimond wants everyone to know that the library staff is made up of people who love the library. They are experienced and focused on not just maintaining the status quo but continuing to improve it. She said, “The staff at MDL is dedicated to to library and each and every one of us will continue to make it the success it has always been.”

Kathleen Dimond. Photo courtesy of the Manchester District Library

Editor's note: Fritz Swanson, one of the owners and publisher of The Manchester Mirror, is a Manchester District Library Trustee representing Manchester Township. Former Director James Miller has contributed to The Manchester Mirror in the past.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.