A True Hall of Fame Librarian Molly Carver served as Sandusky Library’s Executive Director from 2015 until June of 2025. Her tenure was marked by her commitment to professional standards guided by strong ethics and sustainable practices. Under her leadership, the Library and Follett House Museum underwent a $3 million total exterior restoration project funded by local community grants and foundations that did not require a new tax levy. Her 40 years of service in Ohio libraries began in 1985 at Sandusky Library as a Media Services Librarian. She soon became the Head of Media and Special Services and then the Head of Technical Services. In 1992 she was promoted to Assistant Director. Then just three years later she embarked on a new challenge by assuming the Director’s role at Bellevue Public Library, a position she held for 20 years. During her time at Bellevue, the Library passed its first levy, joined CLEVNET, and passed a $2.8 million bond initiative that enabled the expansion of the 1903 Carnegie Library and its parking lot. Her service to Ohio libraries did not end with the local libraries in which she served. Elected President of the Ohio Library Council Board in 2010, she served on many OLC and ALA committees throughout her 40 years of librarianship. Her work within committees such as Government Relations, Intellectual Freedom, Library Development, and Certification Review are a testament to her dedication to the profession and the value libraries hold within our democracy. As Michael Penrod, Director of Wood County District Public Library stated, “Molly is a role model for many; often reminding us of our professional ethics and obligations in advancing intellectual freedom.” Molly was also an outspoken advocate for sustainable practices and fiscal responsibility which was demonstrated most vividly through her advocacy for membership in CLEVNET. She quickly took advantage of the many services provided through CLEVNET to reduce costs and duplication of services. Naturally, she served on several CLEVNET committees and its executive panel. While Molly represents an exemplary librarian leading through conviction and dedication to the profession, on a more direct level Molly guided her staff with integrity, empathy, and humility. Technical Services Manager, Wendy Stacey, put it best when she said, “[s]he was a leader who listened to her staff and community. In meetings or passing conversations, I always felt heard and valued, not just as an employee but as a person. Mistakes were not met with anger or judgement, but with patience and a genuine desire to help one learn and grow.” It is because of all that she embodied that Molly Carver was awarded OLC’s 2025 Hall of Fame Librarian. We thank you, Molly for making Sandusky Library a part of your lasting legacy. Welcome our new staff Shari Bowers In August, Shari Bowers joined our staff as the Circulation Manager bringing with her years of experience as a branch manager within large library systems. Most recently she served as the Birmingham Branch Manager of Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Local to this area with family ties to Sandusky, Shari has gained inspiration from Doug Tallamy’s Nature’s Best Hope to guide her enthusiasm for native plants. Morgan Messenheimer In May, Morgan Messenheimer joined our staff as the Youth Services Manager. A transplant from the state of Florida, she is happy to be in a cooler climate close to the lake. In 2017, she left a career in film for librarianship with a focus on teen services. Most recently she served as the Head of Children’s and Teens for Palm Beach County. She loves caffeine, spending time with family, and her dog Hank.
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