Forbes Library Board of Trustees welcome Ann Michele “Shelly” Ruocco and Rebekah Anderson who were recently appointed to fill two vacancies that were created when a change in the board’s bylaws was made to increase the number of seats from five to seven. Ruocco and Anderson were chosen from among a very strong pool of 8 candidates. “We only wish we could have appointed them all. Luckily, there are other ways to get involved with the library including with the Friends of Forbes Library,” said Russ Carrier, president of the board.
Rebekah Anderson is relatively new to Northampton and is already actively involved with Northampton Neighbors, an organization supporting aging in place. She is a retired librarian with experience in both public and business libraries. “As a newcomer to Northampton, I welcome the opportunity to give back to the community that has welcomed me so warmly by bringing my energy, enthusiasm, and library experience to my new role as a Forbes Library Trustee. I look forward to continuing to get to know the people, businesses, and culture of Northampton and to working with fellow Trustees and our talented staff to keep Forbes Library strong, connected, and relevant to all of the City’s citizens.”
Shelly Ruocco is a human resources professional in higher education and the corporate world, and also served as the director of a non-profit school for adult literacy in Jamaica Plain. She has worked in the Valley since 2008 and lived in Northampton for over 10 years. “I look forward to bringing my energy, experience and support to the work of the Trustees. I decided to seek this opportunity as I see the Forbes Library as a multi-faceted and valuable resource in our community, and look forward to supporting its vision, hard-working and talented team and future initiatives.”