OFFICE OF THE GOV.

TOPEKA – Governor Jeff Colyer announced today the appointment of Eric W. Norris, of Hays, as Acting State Librarian replacing interim State Librarian Cindy Roupe.

After receiving a Bachelor’s in English from University of Kansas and a Masters in English from Fort Hays State, Mr. Norris served as a reporter and columnist for the Hays Daily News before starting as a librarian in 2005. He then went on to receive a Masters in Library Science before becoming the Director of the Hays Public Library, a position he held for six years.

“We are excited to add someone of Eric’s expertise to the team,” said Governor Colyer. “I look forward watching Eric exercise his leadership to strengthen the state’s libraries. I am confident that he will make an incredible impact in this new post.”

“I believe there are three skills necessary for a successful career in public librarianship: customer service, budgeting and planning, and leadership” said Norris. “I am thankful and excited for this new opportunity to serve the people of Kansas, and look forward to working with librarians and educators to lead and strengthen our profession.”

Mr. Norris is also a member of the Kansas Library Association and formerly served on the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.