Way Public Library Director Janel Haas will retire effective December 31, 2026, concluding more than 37 years of service to the library.
Way Library has been a significant part of Janel’s life for more than 37 years. Reflecting on her time at the library, Janel said, “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many wonderful people over the years. During these 37 years, I have watched this library grow and change, and I have watched so many of my colleagues grow in their roles and take ownership of the important work done every day. I am incredibly proud of this staff and of what we have accomplished together.”
John Aubry, President of the Board of Trustees, shared, “For 37 years, Janel has helped make Way Public Library a place the people of Perrysburg can truly call their own. Since becoming director in 2010, she has guided the library with steady judgment and deep care for its staff, its building, and the community it serves. Under her leadership, the library has become a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, and feel at home. I will miss her judgment and leadership, as will the entire Board. At the same time, I am delighted for Janel and her family as they look forward to this new chapter. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I thank her for her remarkable service and wish her a wonderful retirement.”
Janel has always believed that a library is much more than a building and its collections. She explains, “It is people. It is community. It is a place where people come together, find help, discover something new, and sometimes simply find a place where they belong. I have been incredibly lucky to spend so many years being part of that.”
Looking toward the future, Janel adds, “Way Library has a wonderful staff, a strong leadership team, a supportive Board, and a community that cares deeply about its library. I have tremendous confidence in the people who will carry this organization forward.”
The Board has begun planning for the leadership transition and will determine the process for selecting Way Library’s next Director. Additional information will be shared as that process moves forward.
“I’ve given a lot to this library over the years,” Janel admits, “but the truth is, this library has given a lot to me, too. It has given me friendships, experiences, challenges, memories, and a sense of purpose for which I will always be grateful. I don’t think I can adequately express how much it has meant to me to serve as Way Library’s Director.”
Janel would also like to express her gratitude to Nancy Kelley, former Way Library Director, who believed in her and helped pave the way for Janel to take on the role of Director.
Information regarding opportunities for the community to recognize and celebrate Janel’s service to Way Library and the Perrysburg community will be shared in the coming weeks.
