Kirkland Library Chooses Director

The Board of Trustees of the Kirkland Town Library announced the appointment of Laura Stoll as the next director effective July 1.

Stoll has served as assistant to the director since June 2016.

During her 10-year-tenure, she has developed a sound knowledge of library administrative practices, including financial and personnel management.

In addition to handling the day-to-day administrative operations of the library, Stoll has coordinated all aspects of library publicity, created and facilitated programming and events, collaborated with local businesses and organizations on special projects, and assisted the director with reports, fundraising, and submitting successful grant applications.

The recipient of a bachelor’s degree from Boston University and a Master’s degree in Information Science from the University of Albany, Stoll was awarded the New York Library Association Dewey Scholarship and the Library & Leadership Management Section scholarship to the New York Library Association Conference in 2018.

She is a former reporter and editor for the Clinton Courier, a former administrator at St. James Episcopal Church, and a co- owner of the Clinton Cider Mill.

She succeeds Anne Debraggio, who started at the library in 2000, and was named director in 2011.

The 2018 recipient of the Central Library Research Council Public Library All- Star Award, Debraggio’s tenure has been marked by creative programming, sound financial management, excellent patron service, strong working relationships with local organizations and schools, and a keen focus on the needs and interests of the Kirkland community.

Debraggio made the library a welcoming and innovative resource for all and a model library in the region, said KTL Board of Directors President Michelle Reiser-Memmer.

“I know Laura is the right person to keep the KTL on its strong upward trajectory,’’ she said. “Please thank Anne and congratulate Laura the next time you visit the library.’’