Angela Marshall

LISBON — Lepper Library’s new director can boast having a book she authored within the confines of Lepper’s titles and not many people can say that.

Angela Marshall was hired earlier this month to replace Marcy Kaiser, who retired after nearly 11 years as Lepper Library director. 

Marshall said Thursday the she looks forward to continuing Kaiser’s services and professionalism. “She was able to make lasting impacts to the building and grounds of the library that will benefit the community for decades,” Marshall explained. “Her leadership and knowledge will be missed.”

Marshall, who previously served Lepper as an adult librarian for five years before suffering an injury that impacted her ability to continue the heavy lifting that was such a huge part of her responsibilities, went on to work as a proofreader for the Farm and Dairy for two years before returning to Lepper as the woman in charge.

As director she will oversee the day-to-day operations of the library, including management of a nine-person staff, management of the collection, community relations, employment of personnel as well as submitting reports, creating budget and maintaining the building, grounds and property. 

Lepper Library services are free and open to the public. Marshall answers to the library board. 

The daughter of Vernon and Cindy Burch of Salem, Marshall is a 2006 United Local graduate who earned her bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Mount Union before completing her master’s degree in library and information science from Kent State University. 

Although it still carries some of the foundational legacy of its founder, Virginia Lepper, she acknowledges that the public library’s role in a community has evolved –much like its physical presence — in the last few centuries.

While libraries primarily served as places where people could gather to study and read quietly, today’s public libraries now are places where folks can share common interests and fellowship. 

Some of the most enjoyable times that Marshall cited are when patrons of all ages gather to craft. Crafting is especially popular among the adults.

Lepper’s historical programming also is particularly popular: “People love history and it interests them.”

Marshall is looking forward to this summer’s adult, children’s and teen reading programs, where participants can earn prizes by reading books. 

Two book sales per year (one in spring and the second during the Johnny Appleseed Festival) benefit the library and its programming. 

She plans to continue digitizing local newspapers, like the Morning Journal. Currently the Lisbon Community Foundation has enabled Lepper to digitize issues through October 2024. 

Marshall lives with her husband Jake in Salem Township, where the couple raises three daughters, Ruby, Eve and Hadley — all who attend school at United Local. 

The couple also coaches cross-country and track at United Local and operate their tree farm, Red Oak Hill.