Timberland Regional Library announces Andrea Heisel as interim director
May 20-Following the resignation of former Executive Director Cheryl Heywood amid an ongoing budget crisis in March, Timberland Regional Library has hired a new leader.
"The Timberland Regional Library (TRL) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrea Heisel as Interim Executive Director, effective May 21, 2026," TRL wrote in a Wednesday news release.
Heisel was previously library services director for TRL.
This article will be updated. The full release is below:
Beginning in early April, an extensive recruitment process drew a diverse pool of qualified applicants and included multiple rounds of interviews and evaluation. The Board selected Heisel after a deliberate and comprehensive review intended to identify the candidate best prepared to lead the library during this critical period.
With more than 26 years of library experience, Andrea brings deep professional expertise, proven leadership, and a strong commitment to public service. Since joining TRL in 2017, she has served in multiple management and departmental leadership roles, helping guide major projects, operational improvements, and strategic initiatives across the library system.
Over the past several weeks, Heisel has led TRL in an acting capacity, providing steady guidance during a time of significant organizational transition in her current role as Library Services Director. Throughout this period, the Board has had the opportunity to observe firsthand her thoughtful decision making, commitment to transparency, and ability to lead independently while keeping the organization focused on immediate priorities and long-term goals.
Additionally, the Board acknowledges that this period of organizational change has prompted important community conversations about leadership, accountability, and direction. While Heisel's appointment reflects continuity in TRL's leadership, the Board views her deep institutional knowledge as a significant strength at a time when stability, understanding of the organization, and informed decision-making are essential. The Board is confident in her ability to lead with independence, transparency, and a clear vision for the future.
As Interim Executive Director, Heisel will focus on strengthening budget development and financial tracking practices, expanding community outreach and public dialogue, fostering a healthy and accountable organizational culture, strengthening partnerships with Friends of the Library groups and other library advocates, and working closely with the Board to communicate TRL priorities, initiatives, and goals in clear and accessible ways.
The Board believes this appointment positions TRL to move forward with confidence, continuity, and a renewed commitment to transparency, stewardship, and community engagement.
The search for a regular executive director will begin immediately and will be thorough, inclusive, and informed by the upcoming independent assessments in the months ahead.
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