T-L Photo/ROBERT A. DEFRANK St. Clairsville Library Director Doug Walsh, left, is retiring at the end of February. Jo Papillo will be taking the reins of the library materials and programs.

ST. CLAIRSVILLE — A change in leadership is underway at St. Clairsville Public Library. After eight years, Doug Walsh will be retiring from the position of library director. In his place, the library has hired Ohio Valley native Jo Papillo as the incoming library director. The two are working together this month to ensure a smooth transition.

Library board member Melinda Thompson commended Walsh for his work, including taking the lead in gaining support for local library funding via a levy renewal in 2021, partnering with the city of St. Clairsville to install a story walk along the bike trail, and 24/7 book pickup lockers.

Papillo, who began at the library in January, is already planning ahead.

“We’ll be building on the library’s successes and will continue all the good things that are in high demand,” she said, adding that these include adult programs, community partnerships and learning support for the local schools.

The board is also planning to update library spaces with new flooring and furnishings, enlarging the community room and creating study rooms for people to use for group meetings, online job and health appointments, or a quiet workspace.

“This is an exciting time to be leading the St. Clairsville Public Library,” Papillo said.

Papillo comes to St. Clairsville having previously managed the Shadyside Public Library. She is a doctoral candidate in business psychology. She received her undergraduate degree in environmental science and her master’s degree in business administration.

“My life’s passion is teaching, and the library fills an important role in offering a learning environment that’s open and free to all,” she said.

Papillo is an animal lover, an avid gardener and a bona fide book enthusiast.

Walsh’s retirement plans include moving to be near family in Pittsburgh, but he plans to stay in touch with the local area, adding that he valued his time getting to know the community.

“People often tell me how much they appreciate the library and the wonderful things happening here. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and looking forward to seeing the library’s next chapter,” he said.

An open house is planned for 1-5 p.m. Feb. 26 as a “farewell and welcome” event.

The St. Clairsville Public Library serves 16,400 people in the St. Clairsville-Richland City School District. It is located at 108 W. Main St., and its hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday-Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The library can be reached at 740-695-2062 and at stclibrary.org.