Emporia Public Library is now on the hunt for a new director.
Robin Newell, who has served as the library’s director the past seven years, announced her retirement Friday following a closed meeting of the library’s Board of Directors on Thursday. Newell tells KVOE News there are several things coming together to make this the right time to retire, both from personal and library standpoints.
Newell came to Emporia after leading a library in Papillion, Nebraska, replacing Sue Blechl after retirement in 2014. Newell says she’s proud of different accomplishments to expand library service, including the purchase of an outreach vehicle, a mobile kitchen unit, the creation of an assistant director and outreach position and increased visibility for the library within the local community.
Library Board Chairperson Andrew Smith has announced that a search committee will soon be established to determine Newell’s replacement. Newell has stated she plans to do all she can to assist with a smooth transition of leadership.
Newell says they are hoping to have a new director in place by May.
