06/26/2006: "New Director For SJI Library"

Patrons of the San Juan Island Library will recognize the name of the newly hired library director. Laura Tretter previously served the library as the Youth Services Librarian and Assistant Director from 2001-2005. She left San Juan Island in April last year to pursue professional baking, and subsequently to take the position of branch manager for Denver Public Library's Hampden branch.

Trustees of the library, appointed by the San Juan County Council, conducted a nationwide search for a new director. Trustees received 42 applications, conducted eight telephone interviews, and four in-person interviews prior to making their selection. Board president Roy Moceri said, "We were fortunate to have several outstanding candidates, which made our decision extremely difficult. We are pleased to welcome Laura back to the island and the library."

Tretter launched several new programs during her previous work for San Juan Island Library including the teen library assistant program, which in turn led to the annual fiction writing contest and a teen summer reading program. In addition, she served on the board of directors of the Family Umbrella Group. Tretter is an outdoor enthusiast, who enjoys snowboarding, bicycling, and long-distance running; she recently completed a 50K race in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Tretter received her Master's Degree in Library Science from the University of Washington in 2001.

Library hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 AM to 6 PM, Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM. Library cards are free to island residents with proof of residency.