Townsfolk Attend Send-off for Departing Roxbury Library Director

ROXBURY, NJ – A steady flow of well-wishers came to the Roxbury Public Library on Friday to say goodbye to departing library director Radwa Ali.

It was Ali’s last day at the library, a place to which she brough significant change since being hired in 2017. On Monday, she starts a similar position at Montclair Public Library.

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Those attending Friday’s farewell event, signed guest books, enjoyed snacks and made a point of hugging Ali or shaking her hand while expressing gratitude mixed with disappointment at her departure.

"Leaving Roxbury was a gut-wrenching decision," Ali said. "I wish I could take the Montclair opportunity and not leave somehow. In my time in Roxbury, I've gotten to know so many people across all spectrums; people with different faiths, different politics, different families, different values. The library always managed to bring these people together harmoniously, and that is precisely why I love my job so much. The staff and library trustees are fully vested in our vision. I know whoever they hire will continue to build on the foundation that we've built."

The Roxbury Public Library Board of Trustees has hired Library Crossroads Consulting to search for a new library director, a post with a minimum salary of $108,000. The company has set Aug. 5 as the deadline for applications.

Kerrin Graul, the library's adult services supervising librarian, is serving as interim director until a replacement for Ali is found.

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More TAPinto Roxbury coverage:

Roxbury Public Library Director Radwa Ali Finds New Job

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