The Joseph H. Plumb Memorial Library’s Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the hiring of Kristen Cardoso as Library Director, effective September 26.
Kristen has more than 17 years of library experience. She holds a Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) degree from McGill University’s ALA-accredited School of Information Studies, as well as a masters in English Literature (MA.) She started her journey as a page for the New Bedford Free Public Library where she developed a deep passion for the service libraries can provide communities. She carried this passion with her as she took on various challenging roles and increasing responsibilities, first as a student staff member at UMass Dartmouth and McGill University and then as a professional at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and the University of California, Santa Cruz. Most recently, upon moving back to New Bedford, she has served as the Howland-Green Branch Library manager.
Kristen is also a published author on library best practices. As a leader, Kristen focuses on developing and supporting her staff, while also having a deep understanding of community needs. She has created and executed successful library programing, including those based on technology education for all patron groups. Kristen’s expertise aligns with the goals of the library’s five-year plan and its mission to make available to the residents of the town of Rochester, a center which provides information, entertainment, education and enrichment for all segments of the community.
Kristen Cardoso said, “The Plumb Memorial Library is a beloved community institution, and I am excited and honored to be taking up the torch. I believe libraries are essential for creating thriving communities, where the library is the community’s home away from home, and I look forward to being a part of that here in Rochester. I hope to make the library an even bigger part of people’s lives. See you at the library soon.”