The Library Board of Trustees is once again searching for a new director for the Churchill County Library. Director Cathy Thorsen, who was in the position for eight months, resigned June 18, effective immediately.
At its June 26 meeting, the board discussed the hiring of an interim library director to ensure the library remains open six days a week. Trustees discussed reaching out to current library employees, other county employees and even school district librarians to fill the interim position until a new director is chosen. Chairwoman Jessica Rowe said the interim director would most likely serve into September before the permanent director was in place.
“We’re putting out the call because no one is jumping up to volunteer,” she said.
Trustees decided those interested in the interim director position can just submit a letter of interest, similar to the process of selecting board members. The interim director will not need to hold all the qualifications needed for a librarian, but will need to possess managerial and supervisory skills, and “be the face of the library” during this transition time. The interim director would be paid during their tenure, or they could volunteer their time. Trustee Sue Segura felt strongly the person should be compensated because unpaid volunteers often lose interest quickly and leave organizations scrambling for coverage.
Churchill County Human Resources Manager Kim Brontesema said the search for the new library director will begin immediately. She will use traditional online job boards to ensure a national reach, as well as advertisements locally and on the county’s website. The job listing will be open for four weeks, and Brontesema will pre-screen applications to make a recommendation for the top candidates. It was decided candidates would be vetted by a member from the Churchill Library Association, the interim director and human resources. Final candidates will be interviewed by the board in an open meeting.
Due to the sudden resignation of Thorsen, staffing issues could affect the library’s hours. Currently, the library is short one position to be open on Monday mornings; the library needs at least two people working at one time to remain open to the public and to ensure their safety. Trustees and staff are hopeful they can fill the Monday morning slot with either volunteers or staff willing to work overtime. However, the board passed a motion stating the library will be allowed to close Monday mornings if needed.
Those interested in the interim director position are encouraged to submit a letter of interest to Churchill County Human Resources by July 7. Trustees will meet again on July 11.
The previous library director, C.L. Quillen, was terminated by the board May 31, 2024. At that time, retired library director Carol Lloyd agreed to serve as the interim director. She worked four months before Thorsen started on Oct. 14, 2024.
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