Milford Public Library Announces New Director

Lea Rosell will serve as the new Director of the Milford Public Library

The Milford Public Library Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Ms. Lea Rosell has accepted the position of Library Director. A Milford native and current resident, Ms. Rosell spent the last thirteen years working for the Lewes Public Library. Having started as a volunteer, Ms. Rosell earned her MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh, became the Teen Services Librarian in 2012, was promoted to Director of Youth Services in 2017, and took over as Library Director in 2018.

In concert with a talented and dedicated team, Ms. Rosell and her staff were able to transform a small library into a bustling community center and resource hub. Rosell looks forward to a similar transformation at the Milford Library. Rosell says, “Milford is having a renaissance. Our residents are more involved and invested in the health and prosperity of our community than ever before. I’m excited to be part of it.”

The Library had to reduce hours recently due to rising costs and falling government support.

“We had no choice but to temporarily cut our hours until we had the time and space to evaluate our situation. We’ve been able to make internal adjustments that will have a lesser impact on our users,” says Board President Lois Studte.

Other board members echoed Studte’s remarks.

“As an independent nonprofit the Library doesn’t have the same recourse as traditional businesses. We can’t raise prices and we aren’t immune to increased costs,” notes Ray Lynch, Board Treasurer.

Working together with the future in mind, Rosell and the Board will increase operating hours soon. Progress is on the horizon. Grant funds have been secured that will allow for electrical upgrades throughout the building, and provide funds needed to update signage, furniture, and the building’s HVAC system.

“We’re excited to have Lea on board,” says Studte. “Her experience is exactly what we need to move forward.”