Town Manager Bill Kerbin has told NGX that Library Director Jay Campbell has resigned, effective May 18. Emily Martin, previously Assistant Librarian, is now serving as Acting Director, Kerbin said.
Kerbin said he couldn’t comment on personnel matters. But as to filling the vacant director position, he said, “We’ll be looking at the needs of the Library and the best way forward.” He expects to work in consultation with the Select Board to seek the “best qualified person” and serve “the best interests of the Library and the town.” No decision has yet been made regarding a search committee, Kerbin said.
Campbell was hired as New Gloucester’s Library Director in December 2021. His time in the position was marked by a new schedule and expanded hours, a revitalized Friends of the Library group and expanded programming, including concerts, book talks, workshops and celebrations. His departure follows budget and staffing questions and controversy over the removal of a pride flag from the Library building.
A notice posted on the Library’s Facebook page on May 22 announces that due to a staffing shortage, the Library will be temporarily reducing its hours of operation. No timetable for the resumption of full hours is given.
— Joanne Cole
