Andrew Dettman named new director for Oregon Public Library

Andrew Dettman has been named the new director at the Oregon Public Library.

“We are very excited about having Andy join us,” said Library Board President Scott Stephens.  “He comes to Oregon with a great resume and lots of life experience. He and his family will be great additions to our community.”

Dettman is from Rockford and has a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from the City University of London.

He also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Political Science from Northern Illinois University where he is currently working on his Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

“My career goal has always been to serve a public library. All my education and work experience has been geared toward that goal,” Dettman said.

“I am very excited about my new position at the Oregon library and I’m excited to be a part of this vibrant community.”

Among others, Dettman has worked for the Madison, Wis., and Ida, Ill., public libraries along with the Institute of Historical Research in London.

His other experience includes working for the Carpenter’s Place Homeless Shelter and serving on the Rockford Mayoral Task Force on Homelessness.

“ I grew up driving through Oregon when we visited my grandparents and I have always felt it to be a great place,” Dettman said.

“I can’t wait to get started at the library and start meeting the patrons. I want the citizens to want to come to the library and to realize how much a library can add to an already great community.”

The library’s former director Marsha Zaccone is retiring and her last day will be Sept. 13.

“We will truly miss Marsha at the library,” Stephens said.

“She has served for almost 10 years and has been a great visionary for us. She has always led with integrity and with the library’s best interests in mind. Andy has big shoes to fill but we think he is up to the task.”