My early career started in journalism and broadcast news before I accidentally wandered into some intriguing positions in corporate communications and public relations. In the early 2000s, I relocated to southeastern Virginia where I served as Director of Communications for the North American division of Titan Cement, SA, a global cement manufacturer. Although I loved the job, I missed the family so I returned to the area in 2017. I set up McClain Media LLC which specializes in communication counsel, issues and crisis management and organizational change management, serving a variety of fascinating local clients, including P&G, GE Aviation, Kroger, Miami University and Lexmark International.
When I returned to the area, I applied for my BCPL library card before a Kentucky license plate. While perusing the BCPL website, a promo for board members caught my attention. I’ve always been passionate about books, literacy and especially libraries themselves. Plus, I was eager to find ways to engage with the community. This all felt like providence so I applied immediately and to my great fortune, was sworn in September of 2018. I even earned my Library Board of Trustee Certification.
As the digital transformation becomes deeper and broader, our public libraries have an opportunity to re-examine how they serve their communities. I believe BCPL was ahead of itself in this respect. It’s a great privilege to be a BCPL trustee at this moment in time and it gives me much pride to observe the fruits of our labor, such as the following: wide-area mesh network, Boone Innovation Lab, classes in everything from fitness to art, the gorgeous art gallery, concerts, the amazing staff and more. Being a part of the library governance experience adds a new dimension to my appreciation of this remarkable organization. My favorite thing, though, is still roaming the stacks and saying hello to the books.
Larry, my spice, and I are empty nesters now but enjoy spending time with our blended family. We’re looking forward to some postponed international travel when the world safely opens up again. Meanwhile, we enjoy domestic trips and visiting with friends.
Meet the BCPL Board of Trustees
Dr. Eric Jackson – Vice President
Chris Lange – Treasurer
Meet the BCPL Executive Director
Carrie Herrmann – Executive Director
Meet the BCPL Directors
Jennifer Timmerman – Youth Services and Outreach Director
Bridget Striker – Boone County Borderlands Archive and History Center at Boone County Public Library
Sherri Slavey – Human Resources
Jeff West – Facilities (coming in October)
Samantha Sizemore (coming in November)
Jennifer Gregory (coming in December)
Michael Salvarino – IT (coming in January 2023)
Jennifer Cheek – Public Relations and Marketing (coming in February 2023)
Dawna Bach – Public Services (coming in March 2023)