The Alleghany Highlands Regional Library is under new management. Lisa Sponaugle has been named Library Director, while Shannon Anderson has been named Technical Services Coordinator.
Sponaugle takes over the director’s position after the retirement of Lisa Hicks, who ended her tenure as director of the library after 20 years in July.
“We’re excited to have Lisa Sponaugle as our new director,” said Josh Hagy, chairman of the AHRL Board of Trustees. “We have every confidence in her and we look forward to seeing where she takes the library next.”
Sponaugle’s appointment was approved by the board at its regular September meeting, capping a search process that spanned three months.
“We’re very fortunate to be able to promote from within,” said Hagy. “There are many libraries in Virginia who have been searching for years for their next director.”
According to the Library of Virginia, AHRL was one of 10 libraries searching for a director in 2023, and some of those searches had been ongoing for up to two years.
Sponaugle is a graduate of Virginia Tech, and currently pursuing her master’s degree in Library and Information Science degree from Louisiana State University. She is a long-time resident of the Falling Spring area and has been with Alleghany Highlands Regional Library for almost 7 years.
“I am beyond thrilled to be taking over the reins here at Alleghany Highlands Regional Library. Lisa Hicks spent the last 20 years growing this incredible community asset, and I only hope I can continue with the same dedication and success. I am thankful to our Board of Trustees for the faith they have placed in me to do so, and the support I have received from my staff through this transition,” said Sponaugle.
Sponaugle had previously served the library as technical services coordinator, a role that will now be filled by Anderson, who was previously a
member of the library’s part-time staff.
“I’m really appreciative that we have a staff who is willing to grow within the library and dedicate their time and efforts to ensuring we have a library that serves the community well,” said Hagy. “I’m excited about the experience and possibilities our new leadership team is bringing to the community.”
Anderson has capped off a 17-year career in health care. She will soon be completing a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University. She has been a resident of Alleghany County for almost 10 years.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to work for this wonderful organization. I look forward to helping foster future growth of the library and to working with the citizens of Alleghany County, the City of Covington and surrounding areas,” said Anderson.
Alleghany Highlands Regional Library welcomes the community to join them for a Christmas open house on Tuesday, December 12th, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Come grab a sweet treat, meet our new staff and explore all the library has to offer patrons of all ages.
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