UH Library manager to lead Painesville library

Aurora Martinez, outside the University Heights Library.

Aurora Martinez, University Heights Library manager, has been named director of Morley Library in Painesville.

Martinez joined the library’s youth services department in 2006 and has served as the library's manager since 2008. She previously worked in youth services at the Euclid and Geauga County public libraries. 

During her time at the University Heights Library, Martinez participated in many civic, business and school issues. She worked closely with Walter Stinson, University Heights's senior services manager, collaborated with the city government and school district, and forged a relationship with Whole Foods and other local merchants and nonprofits for outreach services.

“She is a much-respected supervisor and colleague who always spoke up for customers young and old, disabled and able-bodied,” said Nancy Levin, Heights Libraries director. “We will miss her very much, but know that the residents of Painesville are lucky to have such a wonderful library advocate in their midst.”

Martinez has been involved in state and national library associations, having served on the planning committees for the Ohio Library Council (OLC) and the Public Library Association’s annual conferences. She also helps with developing leadership skills in women who are pursuing library careers. In 2014, she presented a Lean In To Your Future program at the OLC annual conference, with plans to lead another session this year.

“Working at Heights Libraries and with the local communities has been a joy and an outstanding professional experience," Martinez said. "This is an organization that cares deeply about the mission and evolving role of the public library, service and innovation, and reflects the diverse and forward-thinking Heights community in all that it does. I’m grateful to have been a part of it, and I’ll carry that five-star library approach and mindset along with me to my future projects.”

Pam Spangler, youth services librarian and University Heights library staff member since 2008, has been appointed interim manager.