The Timberland Regional Library Board of Trustees voted unanimously to fire Library Director Michael Crose Wednesday night after a closed-door, 70-minute executive session at the Vernetta Smith Chehalis Timberland Library.
Through an investigation of allegations, the library board found Crose violated the library’s ethics policy for taking advanced salary payments and by his effort to change leave records.
Crose also allegedly violated the use of library equipment policy for his extraordinary use of library time and equipment for non-library purposes.
“We trust the leader of the organization to be forthcoming,” said Stephen Hardy, the Board of Trustees representative from Mason County. “And I believe that hasn’t happened.”
The library board terminated Crose from his position as director Wednesday night.
Board President John Braun, of Centralia, said the library board had concerns about Crose’s work and directed Timberland attorney Craig Hanson. Crose responded to those allegations.
The board placed Crose on leave the next day.
Timberland Regional Library Information Technology Manager Gwen Culp has been named acting director until the board can find a permanent replacement for Crose.
Braun said Culp is a logical choice for acting director because of her experience with the library.
The board will discuss options for finding a new director and may hold a special meeting before their regular meeting next month.
Braun said an official document detailing Crose’s violations will be released by the board before April 15.
No legal action has been taken against Crose at this time.
