LIBRARY BOARD IN NO RUSH TO BEGIN DIRECTOR SEARCH

The Cape Girardeau Public Library is operating as usual in the absence of a director thanks to a well-trained staff, said Mary Robertson, president of the library's board of directors.

In fact, she said, the board is in no hurry to replace Terry Risko, library director who resigned last week.

"We'd like to take our time and get the right person," Robertson said. "We're just kind of reassessing the situation."

While the reassessment is under way, Robertson said, operations at the library will remain essentially unchanged.

"Bettye Black will be serving in her same capacity as assistant director, but she will be responsible for the day-in and day-out duties."

Risko was hired by the library board of directors to replace Martha Maxwell, who left the position in May 1990 to take a job with the Jefferson County library. Risko's starting date was Dec. 3, 1990.

Robertson said a search for a new director is planned, but no time-table has been set.

The budget personnel committee will meet soon to establish what the board is looking for in a new director.

"They will decide what our goals are and what kind of person we're looking for. By no means are we in a problem state. We're not in any hurry," Robertson said.

"We want to get someone in there soon, but we are interested in finding someone who will fit in the community and who will serve the community and library."

Robertson said the library is approaching the end of its fiscal year and any decisions will be made after the financial situation is assessed.

"The library is a very efficient organization," Robertson said. "The people there have been there long enough to know their jobs.

She said board members met with library staff this week to discuss how Risko's leaving will affect operation of the library.

"The confidence level is high that we can serve the community just as we have been," Robertson said.

"I'm really proud of our staff. We have a good bunch of people who are really interested in serving the community."