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Youngstown/Mahoning library trustees extend search for director
By Sean Barron
YOUNGSTOWN
A search to find a new director of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County has been extended.
During their board meeting Thursday, library officials approved a motion by Alex Benyo, a board of trustees search-committee member, to take additional time to find a replacement for Director Carlton A. Sears.
Sears, who began his career with the library system Feb. 1, 1997, announced last July that he was stepping down, effective March 30.
Initially, 25 people applied for the post, which requires a master’s degree in library science as well as library-management experience and will pay $95,000 to $110,000 annually.
“We did a very thorough search across the country, and many candidates were interviewed,” Benyo said. “We are in 100 percent agreement that we need to continue the search.”
The library board hired Kansas City, Mo.-based Bradbury Associates/ Gossager Sager Associates, a library-consulting firm, to assist with the search as well as the application and interview processes.
On Wednesday, the two finalists — John S. Weedon of Manchester, Conn., and Juliet Machie of Belleville, Mich. — shared their backgrounds, experience and expertise during a public forum at the Poland library branch.
Both will be able to resubmit their applications, Benyo said.
Benyo was unable to provide a time line regarding the search process but said he hopes that re-advertising the position nationwide and reviewing certain criteria will lead to a larger pool of potential candidates and attract someone who is a better fit for the local library system’s needs.
The search deadline could reach beyond March 30, and Sears is considering extending his tenure as director, though details need to be worked out, noted Janet S. Loew, director of public relations.