VASHTI HARRIS/ STAFF

Middletown appoints new library director

The Middletown Township Public Library and the Township of Middletown have announced the appointment of Heather Andolsen as Library Director beginning Sept. 5.

Andolsen has worked as a librarian for over 22 years at Fortune 500 companies as well as public, academic and special libraries, according to the township.

Andolsen most recently served as the Library Supervisor of the Robeson Library at Rutgers University in Camden where she managed all operations including leading staff and communicating with patrons during a transient period, according to the township.

Andolsen was the Assistant Director of the Burlington County Library System for five years. During her tenure in Burlington County, Andolsen oversaw the management of seven branches and seven members’ libraries with about 200 employees and an $11 million annual budget, according to the township.

She also has experience with sponsorships and grant writing to help achieve additional avenues of funding.

“Libraries need to be relevant, innovative and in a position to take advantage of opportunities,” Andolsen said. “I look forward to building on the impressive foundation that the staff, volunteers and community have established to enhance services, such as more in-depth reference consultations, unique contributions to readers’ services, and growing community outreach and partnerships.”

Library Board of Trustees President William Bucco said “Heather has a vision for the library of tomorrow, today. Her out-of-the-box thinking is exactly what we’re looking for in a new director and we are confident that her executive level leadership and passion will help propel the MTPL to new heights.”