LANSING, MI — After five years working devotedly as Executive Director for Capital Area District Libraries (CADL), Maureen Hirten is set to retire on May 12.Hirten was elevated to Executive Director in 2011 after holding positions as CADL’s Assistant Director and Public Service Head for the Okemos Branch. During her tenure, the 13 branch system has re-imagined library service for its nearly 76,000 cardholders.
“Maureen’s originality and dedication were evident each day she served CADL. The library staff, patrons and our community as a whole are thankful for her leadership as Executive Director,” CADL Board Chair Debora Bloomquist said.
CADL’s Board conduced an internal search for a new executive director. Scott Duimstra, CADL Senior Associate Director, was selected as Hirten’s successor from a pool of six candidates. “Under Maureen’s guidance, the library has become an integral part of our communities that residents can rely on for a wide range of services,” Duimstra said.
Accomplishments during Hirten’s tenure were plentiful. The most important was the successful millage renewal campaign she led in 2014. The millage passed with 77% of the vote, the highest percentage in CADL’s history.
Through a series of updates and remodels, many of CADL’s branches were transformed into more inviting spaces for patrons. Branches including CADL Haslett, Mason, South Lansing and Okemos all received updates including new spaces, cosmetic changes and improved patron help centers. The most recent and highest profile remodel project is CADL Downtown Lansing, set for completion in mid-March.
Hirten spearheaded CADL’s current community engagement strategy. One of the pillars of this strategy is the CADL Public Service Grant which provides branches with the needed resources to better enrich their communities. Many creative projects were developed through these grants including free fitness classes, maker events and CADL’s first ever StoryWalk®, an outdoor installation that encourages families to enjoy the outdoors by reading pages of a children’s book posted around a park.
Also under her watch, the library has greatly increased its digital collection usage, created the CADL App, placed a new colorful, state-of-the-art Mobile Library on the road and introduced the Library of Things. This is a special collection that supports lifelong learning and creativity.
“When I moved to Michigan nearly 15 years ago, I never dreamed I would become the Executive Director of Capital Area District Libraries,” says Hirten. “Staff were enthusiastic and the CADL Board and Administration were eager to try new things – I’m proud of what we have accomplished.”
Capital Area District Libraries has everything right here. CADL connects you to the information you need and the entertainment you love in formats that work for you. With 13 branches, a digital branch and a mobile library, the library is available day or night, whenever you need it. For information about hours, services or events, call 517-367-6300, or visit cadl.org.
