Library gets new director

The Russellville City Council approved the library board’s recommendation for a new director, Joshlyn Bowen, during its council meeting Monday night.

The appointment takes effect May 15 at a rate of $16.59 per hour.

Interim library director Perla Martinez will remain on staff as library assistant, her prior position, at her current rate of $13.50 per hour.

Martinez was appointed as the interim director during the Feb. 21 Council meeting after the previous director, Ashley Cummins, resigned her role to accept a position as executive director of a library system in Flathead County, Montana. Cummins’ last day as director was Feb. 19.

Martinez said Bowen has a lot of good ideas.

“We’re looking forward to seeing everything she will bring to the table,” explained Martinez. “Joshlyn wants to get the community more excited about the library and help them understand all it has to offer.”

Bowen started working as a library volunteer in May 2021 after spending a lot of time there using library resources to work on personal projects.

“I’m really looking forward to taking on this new role,” said Bowen. “My goal for the library is to bring life to it – make it even more beautiful and inviting, both inside and out. I want to draw people in and help them see all it has to offer.

“We have the summer reading program coming up, and that’s always popular. I’m looking forward to getting things underway for that.”

Lela Ray, president of the library board, expressed her enthusiasm for Bowen’s selection.

“We can’t wait to see all the wonderful things Joshlyn will do to promote the library,” said Ray. “I know great things are ahead. Her enthusiasm and dedication will serve the library and community well.”

In related business, the council accepted a letter of resignation from Lea Touchstone for her position on the Russellville Public Library Board, selecting board recommendation Maria Mojica in her place.

The council also authorized a resolution acknowledging National Library Week.