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Massena Public Library Reopens In Wake Of Controversy

Story Published: Jun 14, 2012 at 5:16 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jun 14, 2012 at 6:15 PM EDT

It didn't take long for books to start moving again once the doors to the Massena Public Library reopened after a three-day closure.

Town officials say the library is in no danger of being permanently closed and its future remains bright despite weeks of internal strife that has seen the resignation of the library director and a mass exodus of library board members.
 
"I think the library will be improved. It's a very, very good library," said town Supervisor Joseph Gray.
 
Retired library director Paul Schaffer is stepping in on a temporary basis to oversee day to day operations and bring some stability during what has been a tumultuous time, while the town board continues reorganizing the library board.
 
"Hopefully with new trustees we can restore the relationship between the town and the library," said Schaffer.
 
Patrons rely on the library for a variety of things including computer access, music and DVD's as well as books and magazines.
 
Tonya Barksdale brings her two young children to the library on a weekly basis.

She was relieved to learn the library had reopened after it's short hiatus.
 
"They have a kid's program every Thursday. We actually plan our week around the Thursday program," said Barksdale.
 
The town board is expected to finalize a decision on the amount of money Schaffer will be paid for the three hours a day he is expected to work until a permanent library director can be appointed.

That won't happen until after the town board is able to review around 20 volunteers who have expressed interest as possible library board members.

It will be up to that new library board to name a new director.             
Thursday, May 23, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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