Erica Rubin Irish will be joining Carver Memorial Library in Searsport as its new Library Director. Irish brings with her a resume with impressive credentials and life experiences. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from Goddard College in 1996, a Master of Arts degree in U.S. Women’s History from Sarah Lawrence College in 2000, and an Master of Science degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University in 2007.

Irish’s previous library experience was as Director of the Monhegan Island library, where she was responsible for the complete range of services, including programming for all ages, building and maintaining a balanced collection, technology training and working with the community and school. She also updated the school library and taught French.

When she moved from Monhegan, Irish used her skills as a freelance writer and editor, and volunteered her time to nonprofit organizations. She maintained her library connection by serving on the Maine Library Association Scholarship and Loan Committee. Early work experiences were as photo and document processing archivist, and as an intern in Costume and Textiles Collection, which led her to be guest curator of a special online costume and textile exhibition for the Museum of the City of New York.

While she enjoyed these pursuits, her “true passion is for public library services and community outreach.” That passion is clearly evident in her work ethic and her excitement about being the Library Director of Carver Memorial Library.

Former Library Director Chase Colasante — who retired recently due to health concerns — for years reached out to the community and moved the library well into the 21st century. Chase will stay on for a period to enable a smooth transition.

On Tuesday, April 9, at 7 p.m. Irish will present a program to the Searsport Historical Society, which is held at Curtis Hall, next to the First Congregational Church. The presentation will include some of Irish's background, particularly her time as Library Director on Monhegan and her vision for future programs, events, initiatives and outreach at Carver Library.