Director Carson takes final bow

Director Carson

After announcing his departure last month, Director Grier Carson agreed to one last question-and-answer session with the Banner Graphic.

Banner Graphic: What does it take to be a library director?

Grier Carson: To be a library director you need an overall vision for the role of public libraries in society, and in your given community in particular, as well as an understanding for what people want from their libraries. This role has evolved rapidly over the past two decades and is inextricably linked to the evolution of communication technologies (as it always has been). You also need to be a great listener, as librarians are intelligent and compassionate information professionals with a wealth of great ideas that can only be harnessed if given a platform for expression.

BG: Does being PCPL director have any unique requirements (like cultural issues/concerns, special programs)?

GC: For PCPL, it’s important to consider the wide range of programs, services and facilities needed to support its varied, sometimes disparate, groups of users. Striking a balance between print materials and electronic resources, for example. Promoting a culture of inclusiveness without pushing a specific agenda. And bridging the digital divide through equitable access to 21st-century skills instruction and support. These are specific challenges for PCPL, and I feel we’ve had great success in these areas.

BG: Based on your time as director, what do you think the future holds for PCPL?

GC: I feel strongly that PCPL is moving in the right direction in terms of serving more and more users and thereby expanding its role in the community. Adult literacy, technology programming, youth services and related programming, local history and genealogical resources and support, outreach services and materials delivery -- these are initiatives that are unique to PCPL and make an impact on Putnam County residents. Staff development over the past few years has also brought an impressive pool of talent to the library. The combination of these unique initiatives and the talent that drives them will ensure PCPL’s role and subsequent success going forward.

Carson served as the library director for four years. The library has already received several applications, and the Library Board is set to make a choice of the new direcor in April.

In the meantime, Business Operations Manager Lisa Barker is serving as the interim manager.

The Putnam County Public Library Board of Trustees’ next regular meeting is set for April 25 at 6 p.m. in the Kiwanis conference room, 103 E. Poplar St., Greencastle.