The Frankenmuth Wickson District Library is excited to name Michelle Duclos as Interim Library Director. Michelle brings with her an extensive background in leadership, finance, and project development. Recently promoted as the Marketing Specialist, Michelle was first recruited four years ago by director Pam Williams.
“We pursued Michelle because we recognized her leadership and problem-solving skills and admired her involvement in the Frankenmuth community,” says Williams. “Throughout the years she has gained knowledge of day-to-day operations of the library and has expressed an interest in increasing her roles and responsibilities. We are confident that Michelle’s experience in business and personnel management, and her understanding of the Frankenmuth Library culture makes her well suited to take on this role.” In the end, patrons are our biggest concern and the board felt it important to provide continuity of programming and services. They chose to move forward with an Interim role to create the space and time needed during this transitional period. Michelle is a capable, caring employee and will lead in this role while gaining necessary experience and knowledge to direct the library. During the farewell reception for direction Pam Williams last Tuesday evening, Williams shared her final remarks from a modest podium on the main floor of the library as dozens of friends, family, and community members of all ages gathered around. Williams encouraged patrons to commit to 3 things in her absence. First, she urged library goers to look forward, as opposed to looking back on the way things have been done in the past. The library has a bright future, and we must be willing to go to new places to get there. Second, Pam emphasized the importance of patience throughout the transition. Finally, Pam encouraged us to be kind to one other.
As we bid farewell to Pam, we extend a warm welcome to Michelle, who is excited to take on her new role. “I am looking forward to continuing the strong community presence the library has by expanding our outreach efforts and services provided.” Duclos, like Williams, considers the position of Library Director as a position of service. “It is an honor to serve our community. I am looking forward to developing relationships with our patrons and their families.”
Duclos has big dreams for the future of the library. “I want to ensure that our library continues to be flexible and meet the needs of our community, to continue to be a welcoming place for everyone in our community. I would love to explore the possibility of having a formal maker space for the community to utilize and I am hopeful in the future we will be able to have a bookmobile for our community.” This is just the beginning. We look forward to many exciting developments in the life of our community and library.
Jumping into her new role this week, Michelle will have an opportunity to work side-by-side with Williams during a transitional period to ensure a smooth transfer. Michelle is a familiar and friendly face at the library. Be sure to stop by and welcome her as our new library leader.
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