West Hartford Library Manager Takes Over as Director of Avon Library

Soon after retiring Avon Library Director Virginia Vocelli leaves for vacation, the manager of the Automated Services Division at the West Hartford Public Library will start as her replacement. 

New Hartford resident Glenn Grube, 42, who at one time was part-time Avon Free Public Library reference librarian, will become the new Avon library director. He has worked in West Hartford since 2000, specializing in technology for all three West Hartford library branches.

A press release from the town of Avon said that Grube will oversee "planning, direction and supervision of all aspects of library service."

"In addition, he will work with the Board of Directors and the Town Manager to develop and implement a post expansion long range plan, and he will expand community outreach to build on existing partnerships with patrons, schools, organizations and local businesses," the press release stated.

Grube said he's excited to return to Avon and is thrilled about the renovated facility.

"They've got a great staff," he said. "We've got a great building so I think we need to focus on programs and services."

His first day is Dec. 3 and he said he will be be paid about a $94,500 annual salary. 

Vocelli, who is retiring after about 24 years working at the Avon library, wishes him well. She is optimistic for the library's future under his leadership.

"I'm excited for him because I have known him for a long time," Vocelli, a West Hartford resident, said. "He has a great vision of the library for the future."

Grube was in attendance at her retirement party. Library staff requested that Patch hold off on publishing his name until it was made official and the town announced the news.

Grube said he's had a passion for libraries since he was a kid. He grew up in Glastonbury and became a page there when he was 16. He went on to work in the Adult Services Department of the Welles-Turner Memorial Library in Glastonbury.

"Providing people with information and entertainment in a free egalitarian way that a library does is a rewarding profession," Grube said.

He has a bachelor's degree in English from Trinity College and was honored as a Faculty Scholar there before earning a master's degree in library science from Southern Connecticut State University.

Grube has also worked at the Manchester Public Library in circulation and technical services, according to the press release. He's also worked at medical libraries.

"The Board of Directors and the Town look forward to a rewarding association as Mr. Grube directs the Avon Free Public Library in the years to come," the press release from the town stated.