Sad News from the Monona Public Library

The news that has slowly spread around town became official last Friday when the Monona Library Board announced Director Demita Gerber has taken indefinite medical leave due to very serious and sudden health problem. The Board appointed Erick Plumb as Acting Library Director (Promoting Erick to assistant director was just one of the many positive moves that Demita made for our library since she arrived in 2006.).

Drop off a card for Demita at the library and if you really want to honor her, while you're there check something out (seriously).

You can post comments here also as long as you promise to check stuff out from the Monona library too. You can always place a hold at LinkCat and pick it up at the library later.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monona Public Library
Contact Erick Plumb at 608-216-7455 or eplumb@mononalibrary.org
May 7, 2010

Monona Library Director Demita Gerber on medical leave; Acting Director appointed

The Monona Public Library regrets to announce that Library Director Demita Gerber is on indefinite medical leave following emergency surgery for a brain aneurysm.  Gerber was admitted to an area hospital on Monday, April 26, and underwent surgery the following day.  She remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition.  Her family anticipates a lengthy recovery. 

Gerber was named Director of the Monona Public Library in 2006 and has overseen numerous improvements to Library service. She was a driving force behind the recently completed "Booked for Life Endowment Fund Drive" that raised $153,000 for the Library's future vitality. She has also worked closely with the staff and board to improve patron access to technology, establish new early literacy initiatives, launch online tutoring, and foster a new teen program. Library circulation under her leadership has reached record highs.

In anticipation of Gerber’s extended absence, Assistant Director Erick Plumb was appointed Acting Library Director by the Library Board at a special meeting on Friday, May 7.  Plumb also joined the Library in 2006, and was named Assistant Director in late 2008.  "We're obviously concerned for Demita's health and her family's well-being," Plumb said. "Demita's absence will be difficult for Library staff as she provided outstanding leadership on a daily basis. But she has built a tremendous team over the last four years, and our patrons should continue to expect the same great service."

Library Board president Andrew Taylor said, "We are all shocked and saddened by Demita's sudden health concerns. And I know the whole community will share our hopes for her quick recovery. In the meanwhile, the board has absolute confidence in Erick and the entire library staff to carry on Demita's high standards of service."

Gerber’s family is welcoming cards and well-wishes. Please send them to the Monona Public Library at 1000 Nichols Road, Monona WI 53716, or drop them off at the library's Main Desk, to be forwarded to Gerber and her family. The hospital care unit does not allow flowers or plants.