Library Head Leaves Glen Rock To Open Bookshop; New Director Announced

GLEN ROCK, NJ — Independent bookstores have been doing brisk business in recent years. Glen Rock Library Director Brianne Colombo joined the trend last year by opening Gingerbread in Boonton, a "used bookstore for all ages." And now, someone's taken her spot.

On Monday, Kristen Comeaux took over as the director of the town's library.

"We are very happy for [Brianne's] next adventure, but of course sad to lose her," said Glen Rock Library Trustee Maggie Jacoby last week, of the past director. "The Board is equally excited for Kristen to start and make her mark on the library!

Comeaux brings more than 10 years of academic and public library experience to the position, the Trustees said in a statement.

She had served as both the Head of Outreach and the Bellevue Avenue Branch Manager at the Montclair Public Library.

"In this dual role, she significantly expanded service hours, programming, story times in the park, and community outreach," the trustees said. "She also launched a Seed Library and a Library of Things, partnered with Out Montclair to lead three Queer book clubs, and collaborated with Buzz Aldrin Middle School for an art mural installation at the Branch."

Comeaux holds a B.A. from Louisiana State University and a M.S. in Library and Information Science from Rutgers.

“We’re thrilled to have Kristen join us,” said Board President Rachel Feinmark. “Her energy and expertise will be invaluable as we embark on building improvements and expand programming as part of our newest strategic plan.”

“I am honored to serve as the next Library Director," said Comeaux, "and I look forward to learning more about the community of Glen Rock. I believe the library should be a central hub in the community, where we empower patrons’ curiosity and creativity and give them a supportive environment in which to learn.”

She said she is eager to collaborate with the staff and trustees to improve access to, and the functionality of, the downstairs meeting room, as well as find new ways to venture into the community and bring the library to all residents.

The Board said they invite residents "to drop into the library and meet Kristen once she starts."