Heights Libraries welcomes new branch manager

Sara Phillips is the new University Heights Library manager.

The University Heights Library will welcome its new manager, Sara Phillips, on Nov. 16. Phillips comes to University Heights from the East Cleveland Public Library, where she served as the public services manager. She takes over the position from Aurora Martinez, who is now director of the Morley Library in Painesville.

Phillips began her library career at Heights Libraries, in September 2006, as a reference substitute and then part-time library associate.

She received her Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University, and is actively involved in committees of the American Library Association and the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System, as well as the Ohio Library Council’s North Chapter Action Council.

“These are exciting times for University Heights, since we’ll be renovating the branch starting in 2016,” said Nancy Levin, Heights Libraries director. “We need a branch manager who is flexible and can handle logistics, among many other aspects of this extensive project.”

Phillips said that the coming renovation is part of what attracted her to the job. She sees it as an exciting opportunity to be involved in a renovation project and to help ensure that the physical library building meets the needs of the University Heights community.

“I also fondly remembered my time as a library associate in the Heights Libraries system, so when I saw that the position was open, it seemed natural for me to apply,” said Phillips. “I have always liked the customer-centered service model employed by Heights Libraries, and it aligns with my own views on customer service. I'm happy to be part of a system that places so much value on the customer.”

Phillips has experience in community-building. In her previous position at East Cleveland Public Library, she worked with numerous community partners, including the Cleveland Clinic, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Legal Aid Society, and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

“I look forward to working with staff members to continue the University Heights branch's existing programs and implement new programs. With the staff's help, I hope to make the University Heights Library a must-visit destination for residents of all ages,” said Phillips.

Julia Murphy

Julia Murphy is the marketing and volunteer coordinator for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library System.

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Volume 8, Issue 12, Posted 10:30 AM, 11.09.2015