Timberland Regional Library Seeks Interim Executive Director

The library system faces budget crisis and leadership transition after former director's resignation.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:33am

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A visually striking, abstract composition of brightly colored, geometric shapes and patterns representing a stack of library books, conveying the creative energy and community focus of the Timberland Regional Library system.The vibrant, pop art-inspired illustration captures the energy and community spirit of Timberland Regional Library as it navigates a leadership transition and budget challenges.Centralia Today

The Timberland Regional Library (TRL) is accepting applications for an interim executive director position following the resignation of former director Cheryl Heywood. The interim director will be tasked with leading the organization through a leadership transition and a potential levy lift as TRL grapples with a $3.8 million budget deficit that has led to significant layoffs of frontline staff.

Why it matters

The search for an interim executive director comes at a critical time for TRL as it faces a budget crisis, staff layoffs, and the need to rebuild trust with the community. The interim leader will play a pivotal role in stabilizing the organization and positioning it for the search and selection of a permanent executive director.

The details

The Board of Trustees approved a job description and salary range for the interim executive director position, which will remain open until filled. Initial consideration will be given to applicants whose materials are received by noon on April 10, with virtual interviews tentatively planned for April 18. The salary range is set at $13,333 to $17,500 per month, with benefits. The interim director will be responsible for leading TRL through the leadership transition, fostering community connections, supporting programs and projects, and overseeing the implementation of the organization's strategic direction.

  • The Board of Trustees approved the job description and salary range on April 6, 2026.
  • The job posting was published on April 7, 2026.
  • Initial consideration will be given to applicants whose materials are received by noon on April 10, 2026.
  • Virtual interviews are tentatively planned for April 18, 2026.
  • Former Executive Director Cheryl Heywood's resignation was effective March 25, 2026, and she will be paid through June 30, 2026.

The players

Timberland Regional Library (TRL)

A regional library system serving five counties in Washington state.

Cheryl Heywood

The former executive director of TRL, who resigned from her position effective March 25, 2026.

Brian Mittge

The president of the TRL Board of Trustees, who remarked on the importance of bringing in an interim director who can quickly get to work and help the organization move forward.

Hal Blanton

A TRL Board of Trustees member representing Lewis County.

AFSCME Local 3758-B

The union representing TRL employees, which confirmed that all 61 employees set to be laid off in May are frontline library staff.

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What they’re saying

“I think it is important to bring someone in who can get to work as quickly as possible...helping our organization move forward.”

— Brian Mittge, Board President

“Transitions are always challenging, but they are also full of opportunities.”

— Brian Mittge, Board President

What’s next

The Board of Trustees will hold a facilities committee work session on April 14, 2026, and a regular business meeting on April 22, 2026. Lewis County's two trustees, Brian Mittge and Hal Blanton, will also hold an in-person Q&A session ahead of the Friends of the Centralia Timberland Library's quarterly meeting on April 11, 2026.

The takeaway

The search for an interim executive director at Timberland Regional Library comes at a critical juncture, as the organization grapples with a budget crisis, staff layoffs, and the need to rebuild trust with the community. The interim leader will play a pivotal role in stabilizing the library system and positioning it for the selection of a permanent executive director.