WENDELL — The Wendell Free Library is seeking a new director following Anna Lawrence’s departure.
Lawrence replaced longtime Director Rosie Heidkamp and led the library through the COVID-19 pandemic until moving to Arizona, where her wife got a new job. Lawrence’s final day was May 7. A search committee has posted job listings in newspapers and online, including the town’s website.
“We are looking for someone who will work with the trustees to make the library effective for the community,” Trustee Sylvia Wetherby said.
According to a post on the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners’ website, the library director’s responsibilities include planning, organizing and managing all aspects of the library; evaluating and planning library services; preparing director’s reports; and continuously evaluating the library’s collection. Miriam Warner, who has worked at the library since August 2021, is serving as acting director.
The chosen candidate will have a bachelor’s degree and written and oral communication skills. The position pays $23 to $25 per hour for a 32-hour workweek, benefits included.
“We want someone who’s very enthusiastic about programming, wants to get lots of patrons into the library, who is community-oriented,” said Mara Bright, co-chair of the trustees. Bright said the library should be a magnet for the community.
The new director must have strong technical skills, Bright said, as well as the ability to troubleshoot.
“Truth be told, I think we’re looking for a local candidate, someone who wants to stick around and be a part of the community,” Bright said.
She said Lawrence was instrumental in initiating curbside pickup during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’re grateful that she was there for those two years,” Bright said.
Attempts to contact Lawrence were unsuccessful.
Cover letters and résumés should be sent to librarianjob@wendellmass.us or Maggie Houghton, P.O. Box 912, Wendell, MA 01379. The deadline for submissions is July 22, when review of submissions will begin.
Reach Domenic Poli at: dpoli@recorder.com or
413-772-0261, ext. 262.