The Howland Public Library Welcomes New Director

The Howland Public Library board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Gillian Murphy has been appointed as the new Library Director.  

Gillian brings to Howland a strong commitment to libraries, and more than 20 years of experience as Library Director from the Julia L. Butterfield Memorial Library in Cold Spring, and most recently, the Elting Memorial Library in New Paltz. “We are extremely fortunate that Gillian has accepted the position to lead our library,” said Howland Board of Trustees President Diane Landau-Flayter.  

Known in the library community as an innovative leader, Gillian has a proven track record of developing creative approaches to improve library services and meet the needs of the community. With a strong commitment to inclusivity, outreach, and community partnerships, Gillian is excited to begin working with the community. "I'm honored to be trusted to help pen the next chapter of the Howland Public Library. I look forward to working closely with the library's staff and board, as well as the individuals, businesses, and organizations that make up our library district.” says Gillian, who assumed her position as director on December 4th. 

Some of the many innovative library initiatives that Gillian has developed in the past are passport services, home delivery, and reorganizing library collections to make it easier for patrons to find what they are looking for. 

"The Howland Library staff is excited to welcome Gillian Murphy to our team. She brings with her so much enthusiasm, experience, and knowledge from the field. We cannot wait to learn from her and see what our library becomes with her as our leader. Meanwhile, we'll be showing her the ropes and introducing her to our vibrant and wonderful community," remarked Assistant Director Kristin Charles-Scaringi. 

Gillian holds a Master of Library and Information Science from Syracuse University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Middle School Education from Old Dominion University, as well as an advanced certificate in Public Library Administration from Long Island University. 

Gillian replaces Kristen Salierno who served the Library for five years before stepping down in July. The staff of the Library is thankful for the support of Assistant Director Kristin Charles-Scaringi who took on the role of Acting Director during the four-month transition.