Clarence Library director appointed to Amherst
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

The Amherst public library system will have its second director in 33 years.

Roseanne Butler-Smith, who is currently serving as the director of the Clarence Public Library, will become Amherst's director on March 1.

"I am very, very public-oriented," she said about programming ideas. "I will also continue the wonderful programs the libraries already have established."

Throughout her 20 years of experience, Butler-Smith has focused on family activities.

"The programs are geared towards the whole family - from toddlers to grandparents," she said, adding she doesn't think there is enough family programing in Western New York.

While director of the Clarence Public Library, Butler-Smith organized the visit of a NASCAR driver, along with an actual race car, and she also planned an event where the Mercy Flight helicopter landed for patrons to observe.

Butler-Smith first joined the Buffalo and Erie County Library System in 1987, at that time working in the Town of Lancaster. She was a children's librarian before being promoted to branch manager in 1991.

Then in 2001, she was named director for the City of Tonawanda's libraries and then made the lateral move to director at Clarence in 2003.

She said she is both excited and sad about the appointment. While she looks forward to working with the four Amherst branches, she is sad to leave the Clarence community.

"I am very excited about going to Amherst, and nervous," she said. "But it is very sad to be leaving Clarence. It has a great and supportive staff and a wonderful community."

The position is considered a professional advancement within the county's library system.

"I am one to take on new challenges, and Amherst will be a challenge," she said about the town's size and service area.

Butler-Smith said she plans to be visible within the town, traveling to all the branches. She added that she will be working at the desks to meet members of the community and hear their comments.

"There are some big shoes to fill," she said about replacing Mary Bobinski who held the position for 33 years. "The interesting thing is Mary and I have the same philosophy - the library (is about) serving the public."

The board of trustees for the Amherst libraries announced the appointment on Jan. 31.

According to Jeffrey Voelkl, president of the board, members felt that Butler-Smith is "most worthy of this position and capable of continuing the fine traditions and exemplary programming of the town's four libraries."

Butler-Smith said she doesn't expect her replacement to be named prior to her move. The Clarence Public Library will operate under the direction of the staff.

e-mail: jfinch@beenews.com