Oberlin Library hires new director

OBERLIN — David Fausnaugh was a big reader from an early age, growing up in Fremont. Now he’s been hired as director of the Oberlin Public Library.

“Books are awesome. Books are an escape into an entirely different world,” he said.

Fausnaugh, 38, stepped into the new role in early January. But he’s no stranger to working in libraries.

As an undergraduate student at Capital University in Columbus, he got his start as a part-time page at the Bexley Public Library. He remained on staff there for a decade, working his way up the ladder to director of support services. While that hadn’t always been his career plan, Fausnaugh said he felt comfortable within a library’s welcoming walls. They are among the few places where people can spend time, be entertained and learn with no expectations of spending money, he said.

“It’s just a special feeling to be part of that environment, and I think that’s why I’m in this field,” he said.

Six years ago, he became director of the Pickaway County Library.

“I had the opportunity to do some fun things there: refresh the organization a little bit, start the Imagination Library in the county, small remodeling projects,” Fausnaugh said.

He was happy in his job in Pickaway County, and not searching for a new one, he said — but when word of the Oberlin Public

Library opening reached his desk, Fausnaugh was intrigued by the town’s reputation and threw his hat in the ring.

Interviewing in Oberlin, he said he discovered a community that cares deeply for its library.

Fausnaugh said he plans to be a fresh set of eyes in developing a strategic plan for the Oberlin library’s future. His goal is to look for changes that can deliver small improvements that add up without big costs.

Former Director Darren McDonough gave his notice in the summer, but agreed to stay on through the end of the year.

In the fall, he said he was leaving due to friction with the library board, especially over the future of The Bridge. The stand-alone technology center is located down the street from the main library building.

David Fausnaugh, 38, is a northern Ohio native who spent about 16 years working in libraries near Columbus. In early January, he started a new job as director of the Oberlin Public Library.

Fausnaugh said he doesn’t know yet what decisions might be made about that facility. For now, he is focusing on meeting Oberlin residents and listening their ideas about the future.

The library will host a meet and greet with Fausnaugh from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1.

Most popular titles of the past year

The Oberlin Public Library has revealed some of the most popular additions to its collection in 2022:

Fiction

1) “What Happened to the Bennetts” by Lisa Scottoline

2) “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus

3) “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi

Mystery

1) “A Sunlit Weapon” by Jacqueline Winspear

2) “The Maid” by Nita Prose

3) “A Safe House” by Stuart Woods

Audiobooks

1) “Abandoned in Death” by J.D. Robb

2) “Nothing to Lose” by Judith Jance

PROVIDED | Obelin News-Tribune

Lorain County JVS students proudly showcase their awards at the HOSAFuture Health Professionals regional competition. These students will be advancing to the state competition in March.