Stepping down
Jenn Donovan says good-bye to PLDL board
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HOUGHTON -- The Portage Lake District Library Board will undergo changes within the next month. At its regular meeting Wednesday, the board’s Vice President Jennifer Donovan, announced she will step down from the board after the meeting.
Donovan has served on the library board since 2010 and was its longest-serving member. She said she is stepping down due to health and family concerns but is grateful for the time she was there. "I feel very sad about it, but it is time for somebody new to bring some fresh blood and new ideas into the library," she said.
PLDL Board President Sylvia Matthews looked back at Donovan's history with the board and said aside from being a friend to the library, Donovan was a friend to her as well. "She's fair, honest and kind. She's been so supportive of me as the president -- giving me feedback and helping me with my confidence," she said. "I know how hard it was for her to decide to resign because she loves the library."
In other business, the board approved a new library director contract and appointed a new vice president to replace Donovan. PLDL has been without a library director for more than a year. Co-Interim Directors, Susan Autio and Fawn Lucero, have split duties while the search for a new director was underway.
After months of searching and interviews held throughout July, the board approved the hire of and offered a contract to a new director. The name of the director has not been made public as the board is awaiting the contract being finalized.
Matthews said she is glad the search for a new director is finally coming to an end. "I have a lot of excitement, a lot of enthusiasm and hope for the future," she said. "She's [the new hire] is very excited about coming in. There's a lot to celebrate."
Due to Donovan stepping down, the board selecgted a new VP. Former Board Treasurer Tim Scarlett volunteered to step up as the new VP and was subsequently appointed by the board. Another board position became vacant, Scarlett's treasurer role. Trustee Will Cantrell, who previously did not have a position in the board, became the new Treasurer.
Additionally, the PLDL Board is currently operating with six members. Matthews said there is an application out for a new board member through the City of Houghton and local advertisement. According to Matthews, there has only been one application filled out.
Those interested in applying for the board trustee position can email the city clerk: amy.zawada@cityofhoughton.com.