Ruth Barefoot, Anacortes Public Library Director, is stepping down from her role effective June 1, 2020.
In a letter to Mayor Gere, Ruth states, “It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Library Director these last two years. I have given this decision a lot of thought and feel that it is time to scale back my activities and prioritize my health over the busy role of Library Director.”
In her time as Library Director, Ruth focused on service development and staff growth. She encouraged new and seasoned staff to bring their best skills forward, collaborate in a leadership environment, apply management and supervision training, learn new skills of empowerment for all, and review processes revealing opportunities for growth in both library operations and resource building.
Ruth spent time interviewing and listening to staff over time enabling a hands-on assessment to advocate sustainable change. These changes continue to improve the resiliency of the library for these changing times. She was instrumental in providing a new level of services online, collaboration with community partners across the City, improving vendor support, and engaging in innovative service development with partners who want to give back to their community.
The City is looking forward to continuing Ruth’s strong partnerships with key supporters of the Library including the Board of Trustees, Library Foundation, Manieri Endowment, and the Friends of the Library. The City is grateful for Ruth Barefoot’s services as Library Director these last two years. She is leaving behind the tools for a more sustainable and vibrant future at the Anacortes Library.
Jeff Vogel will serve as Interim Director. Jeff Vogel has been with the library since 2007, working as a Librarian and as part of the management team. He’s worn many hats, and in recent years has specialized in the growth of our resource collection, from books to digital resources. He and his family are thankful to call Anacortes home, and Jeff is honored to be working for the city and serving his community.