NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Library Director Sarah Sanfilippo will move on from the position after three years.

 

"While I am leaving for an exciting opportunity closer to family, I am sorry to be leaving North Adams, especially just as the world appears to be getting back to some kind of normal," Sanfilippo said in an email exchange. "In the three years I've been here, the patrons, staff, Trustees, and the Friends of the Library have been nothing but welcoming and supportive. It is clear they are dedicated to this library and its mission. Mayors Bernard and Macksey have both offered a willing ear to our ideas and plans."

 

Sanfilippo was hired in 2019 after an extensive search to replace retiring director Mindy Hackner. She had been the director of the library at Southern Vermont College in Bennington that closed in 2019.

 

Sanfilippo reflected on her time in North Adams and said she was proud that the library staff was able to work collaboratively through the "craziness and uncertainty of 2020/2021."

 

She said they not only made it through the pandemic intact but expanded services.

 

Working with the Spitzer Center, the public library now delivers materials to homebound patrons. Also, about a year ago, the library implemented a fine-free policy.

 

In the fall, the library filed its first strategic plan in many years with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. 

 

"The plan focuses on creating a safe and inclusive library, as well as supporting those values in the wider community, and I am confident the trustees and staff will work with my successor to accomplish those goals," Sanfilippo said. 

 

Looking toward the future, Sanfilippo said for the first time in a decade the library has put forward a budget that meets state requirements, pending approval. 

 

"If passed, we will no longer need a waiver to remain certified and receive the state aid that pays for our membership in the CW MARS network," she said.

 

Trustee Chairwoman Tara Jacobs said Sanfilippo will certainly be missed noting her impact on the library and community.

 

"During a very challenging time, Sarah managed to help our library adapt and continue to improve its service to our community," Jacobs said. " Sarah has set a high bar, and we hope to find a candidate that can continue to build on the progress we have made under her leadership."

 

The trustees will start the search process in the near future and the city has already posted the position. Sanfilippo will leave in mid-June.

 

"I look forward to watching from afar to see the great things to come over the next few years," Sanfilippo said.