The Wilkinson Public Library Board of Trustees voted to terminate executive director Barbara Brattin on Thursday. In addition, the board voted to begin seeking an interim library director, whose duties will include managing day-to-day library operations and helping the board conduct a search for a permanent replacement for Brattin.
Three of the four trustees – board president Judy Thompson, along with Seth Cagin and Brandt Garber – voted to terminate Brattin. John Wontrobski voted not to terminate Brattin’s employment and Amanda Kotlyar abstained from the vote, saying she was too new to the position to feel comfortable voting.
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Brattin made several controversial decisions to offset declining revenues that are projected to decline further in 2014. She recommended closing the library on Sundays starting in 2013, to allow the library to operate with two fewer full time employees. The board agreed with the decision, which drew harsh criticism of both Brattin and the board.
The Sunday closure inspired one Telluride resident to print bumper stickers mocking the library’s famed “Came for the Skiing, Stayed for the Library” sticker, with a contrary slogan: “Came For the Skiing, Left Because the Library Closes on Sunday.”
Brattin’s termination was not negotiated with the board, said Daniel Zemke, Brattin’s attorney, adding, “Clearly the board made a decision. Barb’s record speaks for itself. She’s been here since 2005 and brought the library to national prominence and recognition. She stands by her work.”
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See Also: Barb Brattin’s LinkedIn Profile
See Also: Wilkinson Library Embarks on Public Outreach Initiative (July 13, 2013)
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