The Duncan Banner

November 12, 2009

Library to look for new director

Derrick Miller

DUNCAN — When the Duncan Public Library Board had its regular meeting Tuesday, there was one thing on the minds of those members in attendance. Ann Brown, who has spent several years as the library director, was no longer with the library.

Brown was relieved of her duties days before the meeting. During the October meeting, the board entered into an executive session to evaluate library staff members, including Brown.

Clyde Shaw, Duncan city manager, attended Tuesday’s meeting. Shaw said the board and the City of Duncan had some issues with how Brown was operating the library.

“It was employee performance,” Shaw said. “I can’t say much more than that.”

Some of the discussion in the meeting revolved around things Brown had failed to do, despite requests from the board.

Brown joined the library staff just before the library moved to its location on U.S. Highway 81 about four years ago. Brenda Strong, library cataloger, is acting director until a replacement for Brown can be hired.

“We’ll be advertising for a librarian in the near future,” Shaw said.

The board and Shaw entered into a nine-minute executive session to discuss employment. No action was taken.

In other action:

n The library found s in need of a printer for public-access.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Strong said people have had to start printing to the library’s copier. Shaw told Strong to purchase a new printer.

n The parking spot nearest the front door is the library’s fire lane. Although it’s unmarked, the library has been talking about painting the curb around the spot since the library moved into the building.

Instead of waiting much longer, Strong was advised to make contact with the City of Duncan to get the task completed.