Cresskill Library’s New Director Outlines Goals

Pictured above, from left: Board Member Julie Kim, Board Treasurer Betty Cleary, Board President Les Kaplan, Board Member John Orfini, Library Director Laura Chumas, Board Vice President Beryl Skog, Library Book Keeper Norma Shalhoub, Council Liason Kathy Savas, and Board Member Bobby Bauer.

BY STEVE KELMAN

CRESSKILL, N.J.—A new library director Cresskill was recently hired and has started running the borough’s library. Laura Chumas began serving in her new position back on Nov. 1.

Chumas worked previously for the Lee Memorial Library in Allendale, where for seven years was circulation supervisor. Three years before that she worked as a circulation assistant at the Midland Park Library. 

Chumas replaces outgoing director Rita Browning. In a recent interview Chumas outlined short term and long term goals for the library as she moves forward in her new post.

“We are planning a library renovation in the near future which will provide a new children’s and young adult room,” she said citing a long term goal.

“And a short term goal would be to implement some creative programs such as cooking and craft activities for adults,” she said. “Another short term goal is to hire a youth services librarian and get the children’s programs up and running once again.”

Chumas said she is excited to be director of the Cresskill Library and praised her staff. 

“I am fortunate to be able to work with a staff that is dedicated to this library,” she said. “And everyone has been extremely welcoming, members of the community, the library board and the mayor and council.”