Kent Leaves Top NYPL Post
By Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 6/1/2007
After two years and eight months on the job, Susan Kent has resigned as director and chief executive of the Branch Libraries at the New York Public Library (NYPL). The news was announced to staff May 2 in brief email messages from NYPL president Paul LeClerc and Kent herself, but no reason was given.
When Kent, who had been successful in fundraising and renovating branches at the Los Angeles Public Library, was hired effective September 1, 2004, it was announced with fanfare and seen as a new emphasis on the relatively neglected branch component of NYPL (see News, LJ 6/15/04, p. 18ff.). Kent, LJ 2002 Librarian of the Year, did stress branch fundraising and managed several new construction projects and refurbishments, notably the Bronx Library Center, which opened in January 2006. David Ferriero, head of the Research Libraries, will oversee the branches for now. An NYPL spokesman told LJ the library had no further comment.
LeClerc praised Kent for making “tremendous progress toward her goals. Kent cited “extraordinary” staff commitment and progress in branch renovations, expanded hours, and a “strong, unified staff development program.” She and NYPL brass had been criticized by union officials for cutting tuition assistance; a grievance is ongoing.
