The Gibsons and District Public Library board’s search for a new chief librarian has concluded with the appointment of Tracey Therrien.
“I chose the vocation of a librarian because of my belief in public libraries and their role of providing equal access to information for all and providing opportunities for life-long learning,” Therrien said.
Therrien held her first library director position in Salmo and then moved on to serve as director of the Smithers Public Library. In both communities she was actively involved in a variety of community groups and agencies, and she focused on building partnerships to enhance the library’s role. She looks forward to meeting and working with Gibsons area residents to develop and build upon the strengths of their library.
“Tracey is coming to Gibsons at an opportune time,” said library board chair Donna McMahon. “The board recently launched a new strategic planning process and we’re eager to involve her. Also, we’re looking forward to the library’s 100th anniversary.
“Library service has come a long way since residents of a tiny coastal town began circulating books in 1914. This is an exciting time for public libraries, as we adapt to meet new and rapidly changing demands.”
Therrien will start at the beginning of October.
The library received approximately 30 local, national and international applications for the position. The board was assisted in their search by consultant Karen Harrison Dyck of Pender Harbour, a former library director with extensive HR experience.
— Submitted
