An interim director has been appointed to help the Springfield-Greene County Library District conduct a thorough search for its next leader.
The library’s board of trustees appointed Associate Director Jim Schmidt to lead the system as it searches to replace the retiring Regina Greer-Cooper, according to a press release. Schmidt will take over on Dec. 30.
Schmidt has worked for the library in several roles for 38 years, according to the library, and has been the associate director for about 16 years.
He has been the manager for several construction and renovation projects, including the east and west Library Express kiosks on Chestnut Expressway and the Schweitzer Brentwood, Republic, Strafford, Willard and Ash Grove branches.
Schmidt started his career with the library system as a page at Republic 38 years ago, according to the library. He has also served as the manager at the Midtown Carnegie branch, and as the community coordinator for Ash Grove, Fair Grove, Republic and Willard branches.
“(Schmidt) has served the library well in many capacities over the years, and we are thankful for his leadership for this interim period,” said Rachael Morrow, president of the Springfield-Greene County Library Board of Trustees. “We know he will provide the necessary expertise to ensure a seamless continuity of service for all library patrons and a steady hand for our staff during this time of transition.”
In the press release, Schmidt said he was excited to help offer some stability so that the board can continue its search for a new director.
The district plans to hire a search firm for help finding a candidate. Three firms were selected as finalists during a previous meeting.
Cooper’s last day on the job will be Dec. 29, capping off a 15-year run marked by significant growth and challenges. During her tenure, the library built new branches in Willard and Republic, renovated the Schweitzer Brentwood branch and launched a new mobile library. She also presided over the library as it adjusted to changing demands from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The library system earned distinction as Missouri Library of the Year from the Missouri LIbrary Association in 2013 and 2016.
The Springfield-Greene County Library District operates 10 branches across the county, with five in Springfield and branches in Ash Grove, Fair Grove, Republic, Willard and Strafford. It also operates two kiosks and a mobile library.
Reporter's note: This report has been edited to correct Schmidt's previous experience.
