Deschutes Public Library Board extends search for new director
Spencer Sacks
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes Public Library Director Todd Dunkelberg is set to retire on Aug. 28, prompting an extended search for his successor. The Deschutes Public Library Board decided last Wednesday evening to continue its search for a new director after interviewing two candidates last week and now plans to appoint an interim director.
The board interviewed two candidates on July 7 and 8 before making the decision to extend the search. Library Board President Ann Malkin stated the board is committed to finding the right leader for the district during what she described as an “exciting time.” “We value the experience and enthusiasm the two candidates brought to the table,” Malkin said. “We are in an exciting time for the library district and the board is committed to making sure we make the right decision for the community and library staff. We will take a brief pause to refocus our search, with a goal of finding the right director for this vibrant and growing community.”
Dunkelberg has served the library system for 26 years, including the last 16 years as director. Dunkelberg described his departure as bittersweet, but expressed excitement for his next adventure. “I love, love working in libraries for me. Library is home. But the nice thing about a public library is you always get to come visit it. So that part. I’m looking forward to the next adventure for myself,” Dunkelberg said. When considering the qualities of his replacement, Dunkelberg emphasized passion and community engagement. “Probably the best thing is really looking for somebody that has a passion for the library, that really is able to listen to the community, listen to our staff and and help lead us into into the future,” Dunkelberg said, adding that the outgoing leadership has “set the next person up really well.” The board contracted a firm to assist with the director search at a cost of $45,000 for one year. Dunkelberg confirmed that continuing the search will not incur additional costs for taxpayers, as the library still has time remaining on the existing contract. Despite the leadership transition, the library continues to attract new patrons. Luke, a student at OSU Cascades, recently became a new member of the Central Library. He praised its organization, stating, “There’s a lot of books. I like the way it’s organized. It’s very, very nice. Just in general.” Luke added that the library “just overall seems very good” and he plans to frequent it “a lot more after checking it out.” The board and the search firm will now return to their list of candidates and pursue new avenues to find suitable applicants.
The Deschutes Public Library Board will meet on Aug. 12 to discuss appointing an interim director. Dunkelberg is scheduled to retire on Aug. 28.