Newly hired Apollo Memorial Library director steps down; officials seek replacement
The recent departure of the director of Apollo Memorial Library has left a job opening at the Armstrong County nonprofit.
Former director Jennifer Ramsey announced May 9 in a Facebook post that she was leaving her role as director.
“I have stepped down from my position as director at Apollo Memorial Library. I wish them well in their transition,” Ramsey wrote.
Ramsey, who was hired in November, implemented several new programs at the library, including a popular, free community pantry.
She declined to comment on her departure.
Members of the Apollo Memorial Library Board of Trustees issued a statement Wednesday via text message that said they’re accepting resumes and scheduling interviews to hire a replacement director.
“The library is operating normally, and the staff, volunteers and trustees will maintain the active programming agenda,” the statement said.
Carley Bell, a technician at the library, is currently its only full-time employee.
“I don’t know anything,” Bell said Wednesday.
The library’s trustees, as listed on the armstronglibraries.org website, are President Tom Toland, Vice President/Treasurer Curt Webb, Secretary Jennifer Bothell, Miranda Hileman, Paula Mahar, Jen Mullins, Cindy O’Block, Judy Turner and Kay Webb.
The trustees said all personnel matters are confidential and declined further comment on Ramsey’s departure.
Their statement focused on upcoming library summer activity programs.
“The library is eagerly preparing for our annual Summer Reading Program, which is open to all children of the community. This year’s program features Apollo’s own world traveler, trailblazing reporter Nellie Bly. The library also is anticipating an enthusiastic response to the upcoming launch of our bicycle rental program and the final details are coming soon,” the trustees wrote.
The Fresh and Free Community Pantry program created by Ramsey remains operational and is available to the public during library hours.
An open house to kick off the Community Bicycle Program that had been scheduled for May 10 did not include Ramsey. The open house included a meet-and-greet with staff and the board of trustees.
The library was founded in 1908 and is the oldest library in Armstrong County.
Applicants applying for the director position can email their resumes to apollo@armstronglibraries.org or mail or drop them off at Apollo Memorial Library, 219 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Apollo, PA 15613.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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