This January, the Chatham Public Library welcomed Amanda Merk as its new director. Ms. Merk has extensive experience as a public library director, having worked for libraries both large and small in Massachusetts and Vermont.
“It’s been a wonderful experience since I arrived here. I’ve been busy learning all the pieces of the job and meeting our library patrons. The staff have all been very supportive and helpful and welcoming.” Merk said. “I’m really excited to offer some great library programming and services to patrons of all backgrounds in the Chatham community.”
Along with nearly two decades’ of experience working in both public and corporate libraries, Merk holds a master’s degree in library and information studies from Simmons University and a bachelor’s degree in English literature from McGill University. She has also undertaken post-graduate coursework in children’s and school library teaching.
Merk is not only a librarian but also a yoga teacher. She enjoys spending time in nature and is passionate about protecting and conserving the environment. She lives with her husband and their cat, Hurricane, in Great Barrington, MA.
Chatham’s Board of Education, which oversees the library, appointed Merk to replace former library director Jen McCreery, who resigned in October. Merk’s appointment followed a search and recommendation process conducted by a selection committee composed of library representatives and Chatham Central School District administrators.