Library Director Maria Carpenter, who has held the position since 2011, will be leaving the position this month after accepting the job of library director in Santa Monica, California. An acting director will be appointed as the city searches for a full-time replacement.

“I will miss working alongside talented coworkers, Board of Aldermen, Trustees, and Friends, all of whom are dedicated to excellent library and city services,” she said.

In her time with the city, Carpenter influenced and instituted a number of changes within the public libraries, including: launching a Library Teen Space; co-authoring a winning provisional grant of $18 million for a new library building currently proposed for Union Square; expanded weekend hours at all three branches; increased library card membership through successful public campaigns; and launching new programs such as StoryCorps @ Your Library, Muslim Journeys series and The Awesome Box project.

“Maria has advanced our public libraries, as well as their programs and services, for residents of all ages, bringing libraries back into the spotlight in terms of the immense benefits they provide to our community,” Mayor Joseph Curtatone said. “She is one of our most innovative and driven managers, and though we are sad to lose her, we are proud of her accomplishments and excited for her newest and prestigious adventure.”

The job posting and additional information about a search for a replacement will be available at www.somervillema.gov in coming weeks. For information about the Somerville Public Libraries, visit www.somervillepubliclibrary.org.