Longtime leader of the Rochester Public Library announces retirement

After more than two decades on the job, Rochester Public Library Director Audrey Betcher says she plans to retire early next year.

Betcher made the announcement Wednesday, noting that the pandemic had given her a fresh perspective on her plans for the future.

“I’m ready to spend time with family and friends, and do more traveling and exploring,” Betcher said in the announcement. “I also have a few volunteer opportunities to keep me busy.” 

Betcher first joined the library staff in 1996 as assistant director; a few years later she took over as head of the organization. During her time at the helm, she has helped RPL evolve beyond its original purpose as a repository of books to become a multi-media center with a wealth of programming.

That work culminated in 2018 when RPL was named a recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The award is the highest honor given to libraries and museums that "bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive."

“Audrey listened to the community, listened to her team, and built strong partnerships to execute our strategy, with strong emphasis on increasing and advancing equity efforts,” commented Antinea Ascione, president of the Rochester Public Library Board. “Through those partnerships the library fostered a welcoming environment, often giving underrepresented members of our community a place to belong.”

Betcher’s official retirement date is early 2022. City Administrator Alison Zelms says the Library Board’s personnel committee will work with city human resources and administration to “assure a successful recruitment and hiring process for this key position.”

Cover photo: Audrey Betcher / submitted