Library Board Hires New Director/CEO

Following a national search, the Worthington Libraries Board of Trustees has named Lauren Robinson as the library’s next director/CEO. Following a national search, the Worthington Libraries Board of Trustees has named Lauren Robinson as the library’s next director/CEO. The board made the appointment at a special meeting on November 28.

New Library Director/CEO Lauren Robinson

Since 2015, Lauren has served as the director of the Preble County District Library (Eaton, Ohio), an eight-branch rural public library system. In this position, she has been successful in working with the community to pass levy issues, advance early childhood literacy, and build awareness of equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives. She’s managed a multi-million-dollar budget and has a demonstrated understanding of building library use through outreach, programming, and community engagement.

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio University, a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University and is currently working toward a Master of Business Administration from Miami University.

Worthington Libraries Board of Trustees President Gary Sandefur, who also served as co-chair of the director search committee, said, “The Library is very fortunate and excited. We had several qualified candidates to select from, but Lauren stood out for her experience, which will transfer well to Worthington Libraries, and her genuine enthusiasm for the work that lies ahead. She will be a strong leader, who will build relationships with the staff, our community partners, and Worthington residents.”

“I am beyond thrilled to have this opportunity. Worthington Libraries is one of the best library systems in the country,” said Lauren, who will officially start in early 2023. “The community support is unmatched, and the staff is as dedicated as any I have ever met. I look forward to seeing what we can build together and can’t wait to begin.”

Tom Walsh, vice president of the library board, added, “Lauren has the skills, vision and dedication necessary to lead our library into the future. She is strongly committed to advancing the library’s mission to ensure we are a vibrant and welcoming place for the entire Worthington community. I am excited to work with Lauren and to see how our library transforms and grows under her leadership.”

A community event to welcome Lauren Robinson to Worthington Libraries will be held in 2023.