Tredyffrin's Library Director Checks Out Here but Remains in Circulation

Tredyffrin Public Libraries Director Joseph Sherwood made his last report to the Tredyffrin Township Board of Supervisors Monday night. He's checking out of daily operations in Tredyffrin, but he will still be in circulation in his new job. Sherwood will be leaving his post after three years to become the new Director of the Chester County Library System. “He’s done a fantastic job,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Robert W. Lamina, and on behalf of the Board, he thanked Sherwood for his service. 

“This is a very bittersweet time for me,” said Sherwood. “I’ve really truly enjoyed serving the citizens of Tredyffrin.” But Sherwood won’t be leaving Tredyffrin behind entirely. In his new role, Sherwood will be responsible for 17 branches within Chester County, including the Tredyffrin, Paoli, and Easttown libraries.

During his time as director, both usage and volunteerism rates have risen, as have summer reading program turnouts, which were “tremendous,” he said, showing a “nice uptick.” Sherwood addressed the current library renovations and named Valerie Green, a library staffer, who will be heading up the project. But it will be Assistant Director, Gretchen Chamberlin who has been named to the position of Interim Director.  

This is Chamberlin’s second time in the role, having filled in for the director before Sherwood. The first time around, she hadn’t been interested in applying for the position, Chamberlin explained. As for this time around, Chamberlin wasn’t willing to comment. 

With the summer ending and the new fall programs about to begin, it will be Chamberlin who heads up the coming month’s events including a series on the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War that will bring authors and speakers to the Tredyffrin Township branch during September and October.

September is also National Library Card Sing-Up month and families are encouraged to bring their children to the Tredyffrin branch on September 11th, when the Star Wars characters will be on hand encouraging sign-ups.