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Rutherford County Library Board votes 8–3 to terminate Executive Director Lu Ann James
Summary
After public comment and an executive-session consultation with counsel, the Rutherford County Library System Board voted 8–3 to terminate Executive Director Lu Ann James effective immediately and authorized the Executive Committee (with Lynn Reynolds) to manage continuity and appoint an interim director.
The Rutherford County Library System Board voted on March 30, 2025, to terminate Executive Director Lu Ann James effective immediately and authorized the Executive Committee, with the inclusion of Lynn Reynolds, to take necessary actions to ensure continuity of operations and appoint an interim director.
The motion to terminate was made and seconded after the board returned from an executive session with counsel. The motion as stated in the transcript read in part: "I would like to make a motion that Rutherford County Library Board terminate the employment of Executive Director Lu Ann James effectively and immediately and authorize the Executive Committee to take all necessary actions to ensure continuity of operations, including the engagement and appointment of an interim Executive Director with appropriate authority." The motion was amended to include Lynn Reynolds alongside the Executive Committee and then adopted by roll-call vote.
Public commenters had strongly defended James during the public-comment period. Christina Soontornvat, a Tennessee author whose books are held in the system, said, "This is not normal," and described James as "one of the bravest librarians I have ever met," recounting James's refusal to provide private patron records when asked. Several speakers also argued that moving children's LGBTQIA+ books to the adult section would make them harder to find and could lead to their removal through low circulation; Louisa Lamb said the board's actions involved "over 130 inclusive and progressive, age-appropriate children's books" being moved.
Supporters of termination framed the matter as protecting children and urged the board to replace James with someone who would act differently. Matthew Giffin urged the board to act swiftly, using religious and moral language to describe his rationale; other commenters called for Ms. James's removal.
The clerk recorded a roll-call vote after debate. The transcript lists recorded votes by name and the resulting tally, and the motion carried with eight votes in favor and three opposed. After the vote the board moved to adjourn.
What happens next: the Executive Committee, including Lynn Reynolds per the amendment, is authorized to oversee continuity and to appoint an interim executive director; any staffing or contract changes resulting from the termination are subject to board oversight and future meetings.
