Library May Have Assistant Director Position Restored

For the first time since 2008, the Lynnfield Library may find itself with an assistant director, setting the stage for potential advances in areas like grants, fundraising, and new programs.

Earlier this week at the selectmen's meeting, Town Administrator Bill Gustus recommended that the $42,000 surplus in the town operating budget be used to restore the assistant director position, which was a top priority for the library last year as well.

With $42,000 to work with, Gustus said, the town can have an assistant director on the job as of September 1st.

Also, Gustus reported that the library's union has approved a plan that will soon see the library open for an extra hour between Monday and Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The union reportedly accepted this at least in part in return for the re-establishment of the assistant director position.

Earlier this winter, Library Director Nancy Ryan and Board of Director Chair Bob Calamari that an assistant director can provide - especially with the library also in the early stages of implementing its long range plan. Ryan estimated in February that an assistant director can help produce a 20% increase in programming for adults and seniors, while also helping with grant requests, volunteer recruitment, fundraising, and technology.