A motion calling for a temporary halt to the hiring of a new librarian at the Tyrrell County Public Library was moved out of public view during a recent Library Advisory Board meeting, leaving residents without answers as debate over the position continues.
Advisory Board member Joy Cooper twice sought recognition before formally introducing her proposal, which asked both the Tyrrell County Library Board of Trustees and the Tyrrell Coun- ty Board of Commissioners to pause the appointment or installation of a new librarian.
Cooper said the request was intended to allow “a thorough review of the support and grievances concerning Lynda Mastronardo” and emphasized the pause was made “in recognition of Ms. Mastronardo’s performance to duty and the expressed support of members of the community.”
After the motion was read, Chairperson David Kitts recommended postponing discussion and taking the matter into closed session, citing its connection to personnel issues. The board subsequently entered closed session, and no action or outcome was publicly announced.
The discussion comes amid a leadership transition already in motion.
Nate King, regional director for Pettigrew Regional Libraries, said the new librarian, Rachel Brown, will start Wednesday, April 1. Brown previously served as Children’s Program Librarian at Braswell Memorial Public Library in Rocky Mount.
The controversy surrounding the position stems from the departure of Mastronardo, the former branch manager of the Tyrrell County library, whose exit has drawn strong reaction from community members.
Amy Lowdermilk Odom, speaking on behalf of the Friends of Tyrrell Library, urged officials to reconsider the change...