Samuels Public Library opens its doors June 29; new director arrives July 1

Michelle Ross is the new director at Samuels Public Library.

Two big days in the long life of Samuels Public Library in Front Royal – the re-opening of the library to the public, Monday, June 29, and the arrival two days later, July 1, of its new director, Michelle Ross.

The library, closed Sundays, will observe 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday hours. Curbside pickups, in effect for the past several weeks, continue with new hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Monday-Thursday 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Meanwhile, Ms. Ross arrived (suitcase in hand?) the morning of Wednesday, July 1, direct from Kanawha County (West Virginia) Public Library where she was the Sissonville branch manager.

She will be greeted by Barbara Way, Samuels Library Board of Trustees president, who said of Ross: “She brings great energy, vitality and fresh ideas to our already wonderful and vibrant library.”

Ross is a graduate of Fairmont State University (BA, History) and the University of Pittsburgh where she attained her master’s degree in Library and Information Science. Earlier this year, she received Kanawha’s 2020 Linda G. Wright Award for Excellence in Library Service.

In a news release, she said: “My professional philosophy is that libraries should be the heart of their communities and Samuels Public Library is a perfect example. I am thrilled about the opportunity to lead such a talented and dedicated staff.”