There’s a new face among the staff members of the George H. & Laura E. Brown Library, and she’s already enamored  with the library and Washington.

Sandra Silvey joined the staff as director in January and her brief stint has already proven to be a busy one.

“I just fell in love with it at first sight … the library, the town,” said Silvey. “And the staff is dedicated and enthusiastic.”

Silvey is a Maryland native with degrees in history as well and library and information services. Prior to joining the Brown Library staff she served as branch librarian and library director at facilities in Pennsylvania and Texas. Her husband Doug’s work brought the couple to eastern North Carolina and they’ve recently purchased a home in Winterville.

Silvey’s duties include budgeting, planning and overseeing all functions of the library; her workdays are busy and multifaceted.

“But I have such a wonderful staff here who take care of all the functions,” she added. “I love the challenges. I’m learning so many new things, and getting to know the staff is nice. The town and community are so nice, and I love the aspect of providing things for the community.”

Silvey hinted at upcoming special events that should draw readers of all ages to the Brown Library. On tap are a children’s summer reading program headed by Terry Rollins as well as a continuation of the popular series of programs for teenage readers, overseen by Kim Davenport.

“We have some great programs planned, and the schedule will be coming out in mid May,” Silvey promised.

The new director also touted the expansive collection of local historical material housed at the library. Library assistant Claudia Dahlan has taken the helm there, according to Silvey.

“It’s a wonderful room with tons of information; it’s a gem here in the city,” Silvey noted.

LIbrary assistant Elizabeth Tankard has been hard at work on a new web page, which features online resources, library policies and an events calendar. It can be found at washington-nc.libguides.com.

“I love coming to work and sometimes I have a hard time leaving work and going home,” Silvey said with a smile.