Continuing his love for his community through service, George French III will serve on the Webster Parish Library’s board at the beginning of 2017.
The Webster Parish Police Jury approved the appointment on the recommendation of board president Lyda Madden.
Henry Bridges indicated to the board that he would be stepping down as part of his retirement when his term expires at the end of this year.
Madden began looking for someone who could support the Board’s mission statement “to sustain an excellent library system by setting standards for a professionally operated environment that encourages ethics, accountability, creativity and vision.”
Library board trustees provide regulatory guidance with written policies, secure adequate funding to accomplish financial stability and to provide facilities, resources, services, employ and dismiss the library director, approve staff appointments, and serve as community and political liaisons.
“Mr. French is well qualified for this position,” Beverly Hammett, Webster Parish Library executive director said.
French said he has always been impressed with the growth of the library.
“I feel it is one of the pillars of our downtown historic community here in Minden as well as the branches through out the parish are highlights in their respective communities,” he said.
French said growth and acclaim can be attributed to the work of library leaders.
“Board members and dedicated staff have guided it to this point, “ French said. “We have a great asset to the library in Beverly Hammett. She is a jewel. She and her staff go out of their way to be creative and make our programs successful.
“I was just amazed and blown away with what the library staff accomplish and do for the library,” he continued, noting how libraries left an impression on him as a child.
“I loved going to the library as a child. I devoured books as a boy.”
French served as CEO of Minden Medical Center for 34 years. He has been a captain in the Marine Corp, Minden Man of the Year, board president of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Lions Club, Lion of the Year and a Lector at St. Paul’s Catholic Church.
Serving on the board are Lyda Madden, Jerri Lee, Nelwyn Terrell, Linda Watson, Flo Sessions and Henry Bridges.