Redding's Mark Twain Library Welcomes New Library Director

Redding’s Mark Twain Library is excited to introduce its new Director, Erin Shea Dummeyer. Dummeyer assumes her role upon the retirement of current director Beth Dominianni who leaves after ten years in that position.

“I know that often the reason people want to work in libraries is because of books. But I really love working with people. I’m really excited to get back into a small town library and get to know the community,” said Dummeyer.

Dummeyer comes to Redding after serving as the Branch Supervisor at the Harry Bennett and Weed Memorial & Hollander Branches of the Ferguson Library in Stamford, CT. Prior to that she was the Head of Adult Programming at Darien Library. She has also written columns for Library Journal, has frequently presented at speaking engagements concerning libraries and in 2014 was named a Library Journal “Mover and Shaker.”

“We are so fortunate to have found someone so passionate about libraries and dedicated to growing a library in collaboration with the community, not to mention her connection and interest in getting to know Redding and all those who make Redding and the Mark Twain Library such a unique place,” said Eric Rubury, outgoing President of the Board of Trustees.

Dummeyer, who grew up in Wilton, CT, became familiar with Redding by working for a florist delivering flowers to residents in Redding and eating with her family at Rancho Alegre. She remembers her mother taking her to the local library often as a child and always finding it so welcoming. She first thought about becoming an academic librarian while doing a senior thesis in college, but after an internship at the New York Public Library, decided a public library was the place for her to make a difference.

“I was able to walk around that great building with the lion statues before it opened in the morning. I had an incredible mentor there who encouraged me to teach an adult technology course. It was a formative experience. I knew after that internship I wanted to work in public libraries.” And a small town like Redding with a library that has such a rich history is really where Dummeyer feels she belongs. “There is something about the fact that Mark Twain started this library with his own collection not only for the community but also to honor his daughter Jean. I think there is something really beautiful about a public library serving as a symbol of a father’s love for his child. I watch my husband read to our young daughter and I think Mark Twain would approve.”

Dummeyer says she was incredibly impressed with how quickly and adeptly the Mark Twain Library was able to pivot during the pandemic and bring much needed information, services and programs to all those who must have been feeling so isolated. She looks forward to building on that momentum as its incoming Director. “I believe the library should face outward and what I mean by that is that rather than stay within the four walls of the building, the Director and staff should establish and nurture relationships with local nonprofit groups, town leaders, and educators. After all, the Library is for the community.”

Erin is already busy at work at the Mark Twain Library circulation desk greeting patrons who come in and she’s also working behind the scenes getting to know the ins and outs of the house of books left by Samuel Clemens himself! Come by anytime we are open to get to know her and welcome her to the community.

Mark Twain Library hours: M-F 10a-5p, Saturday 10a-4p.

The Mark Twain Library is owned by the Mark Twain Library Association. It was founded in 1908 by Samuel Clemens – Mark Twain himself – one of Redding’s most celebrated residents. Visit www.marktwainlibrary.org, for more information.