Former library director dismissed from job she was demoted to

Photo by Sanja Gjenero via morgueFile.com

Mary Ellen Close, who was demoted from director of the Community Library to circulation clerk last fall, has now been dismissed from the library staff altogether.

Close was dismissed last week, said Ken Mangold, Library Board member from Randall.

“Her services were no longer required,” Mangold said. He would not elaborate on why Close was let go.

Close’s last position was one of six recently vacant positions that will not be filled, Mangold said.

Close was removed from her position as director in late September. Until last week, she had been working as a circulation clerk. Prior to her demotion, she had been director of the library since its inception.

Close was replaced by LeeAnn Briese on an interim basis. Briese also is the head of technical services.

The Library Board is still seeking qualified applicants for Close’s permanent replacement. The board hopes to have an appointment made by April, Mangold said.

Library Board President Marlene Goodson did not return a call from westofthei.com Thursday. Library Board President Marlene Goodson, who returned a message on Friday afternoon, confirmed Close’s dismissal and also declined to provide details on advice of the library’s legal counsel.

Close also did not return a message left at her home number Thursday evening.

The Community Library serves Twin Lakes, Paddock Lake, Silver Lake, Salem and Randall. It has sites in Salem, Silver Lake and Twin Lakes.

The library has been embroiled in several controversies recently, including the make-up of its board and lack of regular audits.

Published reports have said Close has retained a lawyer to press a legal challenge to her demotion.

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