Jen Kendall named new CEO of Fort Erie Public Library
November 19, 2024 at 3:33 AM
There’s a new person leading the Fort Erie Public Library (FEPL).
Library board chair Larry Graber introduced councillors to Jen Kendall, who has been hired as the new CEO of the library. The top job at the library had been vacant for about six months following the departure of Schelley Hiebert.
“I’m excited to get to work and see what we can do with the library and make sure it’s serving the community to the best of its abilities,” said Kendall.
Graber said Kendall will bring many assets to the library, including creative problem solving, relationship building, team management, research and data analysis, customer service, strategic planning, fundraising and grant writing skills. Graber acknowledged the search to find a new CEO was a lengthy one, but said it was worth it.
“Our research found Jen to have the skills that will benefit both the staff and library patrons,” he said.
Kendall entered the world of libraries eight years after leaving her previous career as a beautician.
She started as a library assistant in Edmonton, before spending time as a library clerk and graduate research assistant at the University of Alberta while completing her master’s degree in library and information studies.
Following that she spent time as a consultant librarian for the Parkland Regional Library in Alberta and became director of Portage la Prairie Regional Library.
According to her LinkedIn profile she also has a bachelor’s degree in world history from Arizona State University.
Mayor Wayne Redekop told Kendall she has a big job ahead of her, as FEPL is an important institution in Fort Erie, and is well loved and well used by the town’s residents.
She officially began as CEO on November 11.
Maria Brigantino spent the previous six months as interim CEO as the library searched for a permanent replacement.
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About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
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