Interim Chief Named to Library Agency

A former Chino city manager has been named interim director of the Ventura County Library Services Agency, officials said.

Richard Rowe will start his new job Monday, said county Chief Administrator Lin Koester. Rowe, who signed a four-month contract with the county, will be paid about $9,000 a month, Koester said.

He will replace Dixie Adeniran, who recently took administrative leave after announcing she will retire March 30. Adeniran, who served as director for 17 years, said she wanted to spend more time with her family.

Rowe could not be reached for comment Monday.

In his interim job, Rowe will oversee the daily operations of the county’s 15-branch library system. He will also work closely with representatives on a new countywide library committee seeking ways to reorganize the financially troubled system, officials said.

Rowe has an understanding of the political and financial aspects of the director’s job, Koester said. As Chino city manager, Rowe worked with San Bernardino County officials to develop a plan to allow the city to play a larger role in policy decisions affecting the local library, he said.

“He understands precisely what needs to be done,” Koester said. “And he’s very energetic.”