Shelburne Library Celebrates Retirement of CEO Rose Dotten

Residents of Shelburne, Ontario, came together on October 26, 2023, to honor the retirement of Rose Dotten, the long-serving CEO of the Shelburne Public Library. After 17 years at the helm, Dotten reflected on her time at the library, expressing gratitude for the community’s support and enthusiasm.

During her tenure, Dotten transformed the library into a modern hub of information and community engagement. When she first assumed the role in 2008, the library lacked internet access and an online presence. Dotten’s leadership initiated a significant digital overhaul, allocating a third of the library’s budget to enhance e-resources. Her efforts paid off in 2016, when the library’s TD Summer Reading Club was recognized as the best in Canada.

Dotten spoke warmly of her experiences, stating, “This has been the happiest period of my life, 17 years at this Library. I’m looking forward to retirement, but I will miss the library.” She noted the library’s positive evolution while affirming that the community’s spirit remained unchanged. “I can feel the love and the care,” she added, acknowledging the decorations and support from attendees during the farewell event.

Community Tributes and Leadership Acknowledgment

The event featured a meet-and-greet alongside refreshments, where Geoff Dunlop, the library chair, expressed deep appreciation for Dotten’s contributions. He remarked, “When we were looking for a new CEO, we realized our first choice had been hiding in plain sight the whole time.” Dunlop highlighted Dotten’s qualifications and her dedication to creating an inclusive environment at the library.

“Thank you for your guidance, your inspiration, and your leadership. It has been a rollicking 17 years, and it’s been an honour to work together,” Dunlop stated, concluding his remarks with heartfelt congratulations.

In her response, Dotten credited her accomplishments to the collaborative efforts of her team. “None of this could have been accomplished without an incredible team behind us,” she emphasized. She took the time to personally thank each staff member and supporter, acknowledging their unique contributions to the library’s success.

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter

As she prepares for retirement, Dotten introduced her successor, Shannon McGrady, who officially assumed the CEO position on October 20, 2023. McGrady recognized the legacy she is inheriting, expressing her commitment to uphold the library’s values. “It’s clear to me that I’m stepping into a massive, incredible legacy,” she remarked, conveying her gratitude for the warm welcome from the team and the board.

“The staff have been a beautiful thing to witness. I hope to make you all proud,” McGrady added, signaling a hopeful future for the library.

With the leadership transition complete, Dotten looks forward to dedicating her time to her hobbies, particularly gardening. “I have 50 acres just outside of town, and a massive garden, so you know exactly what I’ll be doing with my time,” she shared. Dotten expressed confidence that the library would continue to thrive under McGrady’s leadership, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

The farewell event not only celebrated Dotten’s contributions but also reinforced the strong sense of community that the Shelburne Public Library has fostered over the years.