Search to start for new library director

SANDPOINT — The East Bonner County Free Library District is forming a search committee for a new library director following Wayne Gunter’s retirement after 13 years.

A search committee composed of district supervisors and staff has updated the director’s job description and is gathering further staff input before posting the job for applicants. The district’s board of trustees has approved posting the job opening on Dec. 1 for 60 days to draw a strong pool of applicants.

“Wayne’s been such an integral part of the library for so many years that finding the next director is incredibly important,” said board Chairman Shannon May. “We are in no hurry and want to be thorough in locating a director who can build upon a library that is one of the finest in Idaho, if not all the Northwest.”

The district is encouraging existing staff to apply for the post.

“It’s district policy to hire from within when possible, and we have quite a talented staff,” said Molly Huckabee, vice chair of the board.

Trustees also anticipate the post will attract nationwide interest.

The library director manages the daily operations and functions of the district and the board serves to establish policies for library administration, draw up the annual budget and oversee financial management of the district.

Some have accused elements of the board of trustees of forcing Gunter’s resignation, a claim the board denies. Gunter’s 35-year career with the district ended in October.

May concedes there were differences between the board and Gunter, but said such differences can be found in any organization. He added that those differences were not insurmountable.

“For 35 years Wayne has been a major part of making this library system the excellent organization it is, and his knowledge and dedication will be missed. The trustees wish him all the best in his retirement,” said May, who hopes they can find a new director to continue to provide the public with excellent service and a plan for the future.

Gunter said he resigned from the position because of a communication breakdown with the board and accused one of its members of disclosing confidential information from his personnel record to an employee.

May said that allegation is being investigated.

“That allegation is one that I take seriously,” May said.

Ann Nichols, who had been administrative librarian under Gunter, is serving acting director until a new director is selected.

The board’s next meeting is set for 6:15 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 13 at the Clark Fork Library, located at 601 Main St.