CEO/Chief Librarian, City of Quinte West

Rita Turtle started her career as the children’s librarian at the Trenton Public Library in 1991 after completing her Master’s Degree in Library Sciences at the University of Toronto. She became acting CEO in 1996 as she led the library transition team through the amalgamation process to form the new Quinte West Public Library (QWPL) where she was appointed CEO.

Over the course of her career, Rita has overseen the implementation of two integrated library systems, worked on the design and building of two new libraries in Quinte West and successfully steered the evolution of the QWPL to meet the constantly changing needs of residents living in the digital age. She credits her talented staff with the continued success of the library.

“I am very proud of the library staff and am inspired every day by their commitment to excellent public service,” stated Turtle. “After all my years in this profession I can honestly say I loved my work and would recommend this career to anyone with an interest in information management.”
In the coming months, Turtle will continue her duties as CEO and will assist the QWPL board of directors during the recruitment and transition of the new CEO. Before her departure, Turtle will supervise the installation of a new RFID system at both library branches ensuring the library system is well placed to thrive in the coming years.

“The Quinte West library board would like to thank Rita Turtle for her outstanding leadership during her 20 years as CEO of the Quinte West library system,” stated QWPL board chairwoman Judy Vanleeuwen. “We are very fortunate to have had Rita as our CEO, and extend our congratulations and best wishes to her on her retirement.”