Manatee County names new library manager

MANATEE -- Ava Ehde has been selected as manager of Manatee County libraries with responsibility for the leadership and operations of the five libraries in the system.

Ehde has been the supervisor at the Anna Maria Island Library since 2003.

In a news release, Manatee County Neighborhood Services Director Cheri Coyea said Ehde was selected for her wide range of experience during an extensive career in libraries. Ehde has been employed by the Manatee County Public Library since 2002.

"Ms. Ehde brings just the right balance of background and knowledge of the Library Services industry in a time where budget constraints, technology advances and consumer needs are at a high level of flux,” Coryea said. “We anticipate a smooth transition for her and the current staff with an attention to quality custom service for Manatee County Library patrons."

Prior to coming to Manatee County, Ehde was the head of reference and systems at D'Youville College Library in Buffalo, N.Y. Ehde earned a bachelor’s degree in History and German and a master’s degree in Information and Library Science from State University of New York at Buffalo where she also served as an adjunct faculty member for four years.

Previously, Ehde worked as director of the Rachel R. Savarino Library at Trocaire College, as a local history librarian for Niagara Falls Public Library and as a substitute librarian for the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System.

“I’ve done a little of everything, from technology working as a systems librarian, to cataloguing, circulation, reference, and local history which helps me better direct, mentor and coach staff,” said Ehde.

This story was originally published June 8, 2011 at 2:03 PM with the headline "Manatee County names new library manager."