Library Administration is at it again!
Mathew Rose won the battle to keep his job last year. That's the good news.
The bad news is that the library bureaucracy never stopped waging its war against him. Mathew has been working under extreme scrutiny for the last year and is now accused of various infractions, ranging from petty to bizarre. See the Sebastopol Times article for details.
Once again Mathew Rose has been put on administrative leave - this time, with the intent to dismiss.
Given the revolving door of 4 Directors during his 12 year tenure — in stark contrast to the consistent, superior performance of our Sebastopol branch librarian — one would hope those ensconced at expensive "headquarters" in Rohnert Park would appreciate the expertise of employees like Mathew and his staff who serve the public directly every day. Instead, the administration has spent the last year and over $100,000 of public funds pursuing retaliation against him.
The Sebastopol library remains a success story, thanks to the professionalism and community connection of staff who have proven their value to local library patrons and despite the administration’s relentless intention to fire our branch manager. Not one of the “charges" against Mathew Rose involves mismanagement of the branch, its budget, employees or programs.
The result is an atmosphere of fear. Having experienced the neverending crusade against Mathew Rose, all library employees risk being the next target for any minor error, at any moment.
YOU CAN HELP
We are asking Director Erika Thiebaut to end this toxic work environment once and for all and let Mathew Rose and his staff get back to work, as professionals serving our community in Sebastopol with enthusiasm — not trepidation.
Please join us by 1) sharing this update with others and 2) writing a letter to tell Erika Thibault directly about your support for Mathew and why. Please cc a copy to Mathew via our email for this purpose: sebalibrary@pm.me
Besides expressing disapproval of such unreasonable and imprudent actions taken by the administration and/or the potential damage to its efforts to renew Measure Y, please include specifics. For example: positive interactions you’ve had with Mathew; the value of his leadership, support and advocacy for our community; his ability to hire and retain outstanding staff; support for the arts and nonprofits; innovative programs that respond to community needs.
Erika Thibault
Director, Sonoma County Library
6135 State Farm Drive
Rohnert Park, CA 94928