Solon Public Library Director Liz King will step down from her role March 30, concluding five years of leadership marked by the COVID-19 pandemic recovery, increased community outreach and strategic growth.
King said the decision comes largely from a family aspect as her husband’s job shifted from remote work to frequent in-person travel to the Minneapolis–St. Paul area.
“My husband’s job has evolved from a remote position to an in-person role, and this has required him to commute … three out of four weeks each month,” King explained. “When we found our new home in Minnesota, it was time to submit my resignation so I could give as much transition time as possible.”
Her final weeks on staff will focus on preparing the library for new leadership, including updating various operational materials and completing several different staff-focused initiatives. These include advocating for benefits for part-time staff, installing a washer and dryer at the library, and helping finalize a city department head orientation program.
King began her Solon Public Library tenure in January 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period she described as being particularly challenging for library staff, city leadership and library patrons alike. King added that one of her earliest priorities was rebuilding trust among stakeholders while also guiding the library back toward its pre-COVID regular programming.
“I was so impressed with the creative and thoughtful safety measures our staff had put in place while still providing vital library services,” she said.
Under her leadership, the library strengthened community partnerships and expanded programming using extensive community input. Accessibility improvements were also made after the library received two American Library Association grants to enhance ADA access, including parking updates and restroom accessibility features.
King credits much of the library’s recent success to its wonderful staff.
“I am most proud of the strong, connected library team we have become,” King said. “Thank you to Alexis, Cassi, Christian, Cora, Deena, Jake, Lauran, Lily, Madison, Megan, Mykle, and Sherri. Thank you also to my mentor and friend, Kris Brown, and our Board President, Sandy Lawrence, for her leadership and support since the day she led the interview committee that hired me.” Furthermore, she emphasized the need for public libraries to continue to evolve to meet community needs. For Solon, she hopes the library remains what she describes as a welcoming “third space” for learning, connection and community engagement.
Looking ahead, King said she hopes the next director prioritizes community relationships and staff support.
“Take the time to get to know the community and let them get to know you,” she said. “Building those relationships will serve you well.”
As she prepares to leave, King said serving the Solon community has been deeply meaningful.
“It has been such an honor to serve our community,” King said. “The friendships I have made here with staff, board members, volunteers and patrons are a treasure I will take with me.”
The Solon Public Library Board of Trustees will oversee the search for the next director. King expressed confidence that the library will continue to serve as a valued community space as it celebrates the 25th anniversary of its current building this July.