Sarah Sever steps into interim library director role at Neuse Regional Libraries
Sarah Sever has been named interim director of libraries for Neuse Regional Libraries, stepping into the role following Melanie Morgan’s departure.
Sever said the appointment begins with a six-month introductory period, but she is honored by the opportunity to help lead the library system and build on the work of those who came before her.
“I have to say, she was an excellent and inspirational director, and it is an honor to be able to carry on what she’s already established,” Sever said of Morgan. She also credited former library leadership for helping shape the system she now helps oversee.
A longtime member of the library staff, Sever said she brings both experience and passion to the position. She has worked within the library system for a combined 16 years and said she has spent more than 20 years working in public libraries overall. Over that time, she said, she has held multiple roles and received several promotions.
“There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t just feel incredibly thankful for the fact that this is what I get to do for a living,” she said.
Sever said her leadership approach will center on empathy, both for staff and for the community members who rely on library services.
“I do feel like I want to make sure that not just with staff, but with everybody in the community and people that use our library, that I lead with empathy,” she said. “You never know what people are experiencing, and we very much just want to help everybody as much as we can with what they’re looking for.”
She said the transition in leadership will not mean a departure from the library system’s foundation. Instead, she said Neuse Regional Libraries will continue respecting the programs and reputation already established while also adapting to meet changing community needs.
“The wonderful things that are already established will certainly still be respected,” Sever said. “But also, you know, growing some things. You have to change, basically, as societies, as communities change, and things are changing all the time.”
Sever also emphasized that the modern library is far more than a place to check out books.
While books and story times remain important, she said the library system offers job search assistance, résumé help, after-school programs, cooking and craft activities, writing programs, technology resources, virtual reality experiences, 3D printing and a digital media lab where people can record music or podcasts. She also highlighted the library’s sensory room, which is open to both children and adults seeking a calm environment.
Beyond the walls of library branches, Sever said outreach remains a major part of the system’s mission. Staff visit senior centers, veterans homes, daycares and schools, and they also volunteer in the community through efforts such as Mary’s Soup Kitchen.
For Sever, community connection will be one of the most important parts of the job.
“I’m incredibly approachable, and I really like to talk to people,” she said. “I like to hear what they think. I like to hear what they want, because I think that’s really, really important.”
She said public input is essential to making sure the library continues to serve the community well.
“We can do all these wonderful things here, but if people don’t know about it, or if we’re not reflecting what the community wants, then we won’t be successful,” Sever said.
Sever said she is excited for the opportunity ahead and grateful for the board’s confidence in her as she begins the interim role.
