Shreve named to interim post

Longtime children’s librarian Linda Shreve was named interim director of Jay County Public Library on Monday.
Shreve, who holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Toledo, takes over the interim position from Gail Godfrey, who will return to her position as assistant director.
Godfrey had filled in as interim director after the library’s board of trustees fired director Barbara Bonney this spring, but was uncomfortable with handling both financial and administrative duties.
“Her willingness to do it is the big thing,” Godfrey said of Shreve, who has been at JCPL for 19 years.
“Linda’s a smart cookie,” added board member Holly Weaver. “Speaking with her in the past, I felt she’s very passionate about the library.”
Board president Duane Sautbine said Shreve has expressed interest in pursuing a master’s in library science, which would be required of a permanent director.
Under state law, she can serve up to two years as interim director while pursuing a master’s in library science.
Board member Mike McKee will chair a search committee for the director’s job. That committee, said Sautbine, will consist of three board members and three representatives from the community.
Sautbine also noted that Shreve will be among those considered by the search committee.
“She is interested in pursuing her MLS,” he said. “I don’t know why she wouldn’t be a good candidate.”
As interim director, Shreve will earn $50,522 per year, while Godfrey’s annual salary will return to $37,378 as assistant director.[[In-content Ad]]