Winter Park Library has announced new leadership that will seem familiar to many members and supporters. The library Board of Trustees appointed Melissa Schneider as Executive Director.
“After a thorough nationwide search, we are confident Melissa will guide the library into an exciting new chapter,” read a statement from the Board. “We are optimistic Melissa will continue the library’s longstanding tradition of offering a versatile, creative, communal, and resourceful space to the public, connecting its citizens to knowledge and each other.”
Schneider earned her bachelor’s degree at Rollins College where she graduated Summa Cum Laude. She began her career at Winter Park Library in 2009 as an assistant before leaving to pursue her master’s degree in library and information science at the University of South Florida. She has also graduated from the Sunshine State Library Leadership Institute and the Leadership Winter Park program, presented by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.
Her experience beyond Winter Park Library includes:
- Reference and Instruction Librarian at Valencia College
- Library Consultant for Morningside Academy in Port Saint Lucie
- Technical Services Assistant at Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law in Orlando
Schneider returned to Winter Park Library in 2014 as head of circulation and was promoted to head of membership and material services in 2017. In 2020, she moved into the role of assistant director and has served as the interim executive director since October 2022.
“I am honored and thrilled to lead the Winter Park Library into its next chapter of growth and innovation,” said Schneider. “Together with our dedicated Board of Trustees, exemplary staff, and trusted community partners, I am excited to work together to unite and inspire the residents of Winter Park as we continue to provide premier library services.”
In 2022, Winter Park Library noted a 30% increase in active card holders from the previous year, and a 110% increase in visits. More than 430,000 materials were borrowed and 1,700 classes and events were offered. Some of Winter Park Library’s state-of-the-art offerings include:
- A 100+ seat theatre
- Flex workspaces and a business center
- Recording studio
- Computer lab and makerspace with 3D printers
- Temperature-controlled archive conservation room
Information on library services, programming, volunteering opportunities and support can be found at winterparklibrary.org.