Rose Chiocchi steps down as director of the Pike County Public Library
Milford. Longtime director expanded programs, championed innovative literacy initiatives and built a strong, dedicated library staff.
| 09 Apr 2025 | 05:24
Rose Chiocchi is stepping down as executive director of the Pike County Public Library after a decade of significant contributions to the library and the community. She will assume the position of executive director of the Goshen Public Library and Historical Society in Orange County, N.Y., in May. Photo by Rob Yaskovic.
The Pike County Public Library announced this week that Rose Chiocchi will be stepping down from her role as executive director after a decade of dedicated leadership and significant contributions to the library and the Pike County community.
She is leaving to become the executive director of the Goshen Public Library and Historical Society in Orange County, N.Y., beginning in May.
“Rose has been a visionary leader for the Pike County Public Library over the past ten years,” said Robert Ruiz, president of the Pike County Public Library Board of Directors. ”Her ability to navigate challenges, foster innovation like the Little Free Libraries and StoryWalk, build crucial partnerships, and enhance our beloved Children’s Room has profoundly benefited our community.
“Her dedication as executive director, both to our library and the broader Pennsylvania library community, is commendable,” he added. “We are deeply grateful for her service and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”
During her ten-year tenure, Chiocchi has been instrumental in guiding the library through periods of growth, challenge and innovation. Her leadership was pivotal in navigating the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, steering the library through budget cuts, and thoughtfully addressing book challenges, always ensuring the library remained a steadfast resource for the community.
Among her many accomplishments, Chiocchi played a key role in the completion and enhancement of the library’s vital Children’s Room, creating an inviting space for young readers and families. She fostered a collaborative environment, building a strong, dedicated library staff she often expressed great pride in.
Her commitment extended beyond the library walls. She forged strong partnerships within the surrounding community and initiated a partnership with four neighboring county library systems, significantly expanding access to resources for PCPL patrons.
Her influence was also felt statewide through her deep involvement with the Pennsylvania Library Association. Chiocchi served on the PaLA Board of Directors.
Her contributions to the library field were recognized with the prestigious PaLA Certificate of Merit in 2021 and the GAIT Excellence in Partnership Award in 2023.
She lent her expertise and community focus through service on the boards of the Monroe/Pike Community Service Block Grant Board of Directors, Green Trees Early Learning Center and Pike Artworks.
“Serving the Pike County community for the last decade as Executive Director has been an incredible honor,” Chiocchi said. “I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together – from strengthening the library’s core services and navigating difficult times to expanding our reach through partnerships and new initiatives.
“Working alongside the dedicated staff, the supportive Board and engaging with this wonderful community has been the highlight of my time here,” she added. “I leave with gratitude and confidence in the library’s continued success.”
The Pike County Public Library Board of Directors has formed a search committee. Further details regarding the search process and interim leadership will be announced as they become available.