LAKEVILLE — The community bid farewell to Library Director Jayme Viveiros Aug. 16 as she closes the book on her time in Lakeville.

Viveiros is leaving her position Friday, Aug. 26 to take a new job as assistant library director in Walpole after working eight years in Lakeville.

“I will always treasure the experience of working at the Lakeville Public Library and the relationships I have built with the residents, the board and the library staff,’’ she said. “Together, we accomplished so much, but it is time for me to move in a new direction personally.’’

She was feted with a party at the library, complete with a book of memories for people to write in, a cake _ and some words of appreciation.

“She was a phenomenal director,’’ Library Board of Trustees Chair Nancy LaFave said. “She’s a kind person with a wonderful sense of humor. ‘’

Her skills were especially evident during Covid, when library operations looked very different, LaFave said.

“She found ways of keeping the library vital to people,’’ she said.

Maria Martin, president of the Friends of the Lakeville Public Library, said Viveiros made everyone feel welcome at the library.

“She will be missed,’’ Martin said.

But she said she supports Viveiros’ decision. “I feel very confident that she’s doing what’s best for herself _ and this will be a new adventure for us.’’

The “new adventure’’ is already underway. The hunt for a new director will be overseen by a search committee, which is in the process of being organized. 

“We’ve gotten good response’’ from community members interested in serving on that committee, LaFave said. 

Viveiros said she wishes the library community well as they seek her successor. 

“I truly believe in my heart that the public library plays an essential role in building strong communities,’’ she said. “I hope Lakeville will find a new director with fresh energy and ideas who can build on the secure foundation laid here and continue to make this Library an active, vibrant center of the community.’’