Newport appoints new library director

Ted Smith has been named the new director of the Newport Public Library, replacing Wyma Rogers who retired in May. Smith will begin work with the city on Jan. 2, 2009. (Courtesy photo)

Newport City Manager Allen O'Neal announced this week that Ted J. Smith has been appointed library director for the City of Newport. Smith will start work with the city on Jan. 2, 2009.

Smith was selected from more than 30 applicants for the position. Six finalists from across the U.S. were chosen to be interviewed. O'Neal said, “The interview process was grueling and consisted of nearly six hours of interviews with six different interview panels, along with a public reception.” He added that Smith “was the unanimous choice of all six panels, and that the city is anxious to have him on board.”

Smith is currently the director of the Norfolk Public Library in Norfolk, Neb. He has more than 20 years experience in library service, and holds a Master of Library Science degree from Kent State University. O'Neal said that Smith “will take the helm of an excellent public library, with a remarkable staff, and continue the tradition of library distinction in Newport.”

Former Library Director Wyma Rogers retired in May, and Rebecca Cohen has served as interim library director since that time. O'Neal noted that he “has nothing but praise for the work of the library staff, and in particular, Rebecca Cohen, who stepped into the interim library director position and did a tremendous job.”

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