Meet the New Director of the Mark Twain Library

Beth Dominniani is the new director of the , and according to Mary Ann Carman, a trustee at the library, she’s a perfect fit.

“Mark Twain must have smiled from somewhere above when Beth Dominniani decided to apply for the position,” Carman told Patch.

Dominniani comes to the Mark Twain Library after eight years at the Westport Library, including six as assistant director. Before that, she was the director of the Aetna Library system.

“I was attracted to the Mark Twain Library because of its reputation as a gem of a library with customer-centered staff and enthusiastic volunteers who support the library,” Dominnianni told Patch. “Mark Twain Library is a first rate library – so fitting for Redding.” 

Dominniani, who’s lived in Easton for 15 years, said because her son attended , she’s familiar with Redding through his friends and their families.

“I couldn’t imagine a better fit because I believe strongly in the library’s obligation to be knowledgeable about and immersed in the community,” she said.  “I was predestined for the position — my senior college thesis was on Twain’s use of contemporary language.  

Carman said that after announced she’d be retiring June 30 after 10 years of service, a committee was established in order to find a new director. Carman said the committee “felt it was important to find someone who could continue the high level of service Morgan had established, but contribute to the community with his or her own vision for a 21st century library.”

 “As a resident of Easton whose son attended the local high school, she understands the needs of a small town library such as Redding’s, and impressed the entire committee with her warm but professional demeanor coupled with very strong administrative skills,” Carman said. “Beth has extensive library experience. We are confident that [she] will serve the Mark Twain Library and its patrons with distinction, and put her own unique stamp on the place that is Mark Twain’s gift to the people of Redding.”

Dominniani said as a child, going to the library “was always a highlight of my week.”

“Libraries impressed me as the most magical place to go,” she said. “I will always be grateful to the kind Bridgeport North End Branch Librarian who toured the behind-the-scenes of the library for an over-inquisitive child.”

Dominniani said she majored in English and library science at Syracuse and earned a master’s in library science as well.

“I am one of those lucky people who found a wonderful career that fits with my personality and abilities,” she said.

What does Dominniani have in store for the future of the library?

“I’m looking forward to carrying on the wonderful legacy of the library,” she said. “The library has already begun to expand its use of social media. In fact, I invite everyone to ‘like’ the library on our Facebook page.”

Dominniani said she’d like to incorporate “informative but entertaining” blogs and expand the library’s website.

“Staff is continually looking at ways to expand our terrific children’s programs,” she said. “A lifelong love of libraries begins with a childhood rich in library experience.”

Dominniani said she’s appreciated the warm welcome Redding residents have extended.

“I especially love hearing about how the library has been so important a part of people’s lives in Redding,” she said. “I look forward to getting to know the community more.”