08/13/2026
If you’ve been to the Sarbanes Library recently, you’ve probably seen a new face: that of Kerry O’Donnell. Kerry stepped into the role of branch manager in July, and we’re absolutely thrilled to have her. If you’ve had the chance to chat with her while she’s been manning the circulation desk, you’ll know she’s the soul of conviviality and welcome.
Kerry has had a longstanding love of libraries–ever since her father took her to the Enoch Pratt Library in Baltimore–and she also has a long history with Wicomico Public Library. For many years prior to coming to Sarbanes she was the branch manager of both the Pittsville (later Riley) Library and the Centre Library. Indeed, she played a key role in making sure the Riley Library was up and running and, as it turns out, her successful launching of the location caused her to do a bit of soul-searching.
“I was sitting in the new Riley Library, this shiny new building, and I started to think: what is my next chapter going to be?” Kerry says. “I’d spent so much time mentoring the members of my staff and making sure they were prepared to take on this new challenge, but I hadn’t really thought about what my own future with Wicomico Public Library would look like. Then I was offered this position, and I realized I could bring my set of skills to Sarbanes.”
Indeed, Kerry hopes to help mentor the staff of the Sarbanes Library. “It’s really important to me that everyone feels confident in what they do, and I want to be a resource for all the staff and employees of the Sarbanes Library,” she says. “I have a very open door policy when it comes to the folks here.”
Of course, Kerry will play a key role in the transition from our downtown location to the new library taking shape on the shores of Schumacher Pond. To Kerry, the change in location signifies a lot of new potential. “I want the Sarbanes Library to be a hub for innovation, while also staying true to our roots. I want us to be a hub for learning and learning for folks of all ages, from kids to teens to adults. Our library is a great resource, and I’m looking forward to helping take it to the next level.”
Among other things, Kerry plans to build a robust set of programs, particularly for teens and adults. She envisions the Sarbanes Library–both at its present location and particularly once it moves to Schumaker–offering the local community the kinds of programs it needs and wants.
Above all, Kerry wants to make the Sarbanes Library the kind of place that will belong to and inspire the local community, both within Salisbury and within the larger Wicomico County area. She wants everyone who comes through the doors of the Sarbanes Library–whether kid or teen or adult, whether employee or patron, whether first-time or regular–to feel that they’re seen, heard, and appreciated.
What it comes down to is making sure the Sarbanes Library remains a vital part of the community. “When you step into the Sarbanes Library,” Kerry says, “I want every patron to feel like they’re coming home.”
