Mr. Lester has been employed with Dayton Metro Library since 1985. After earning his Master’s Degree in Library Science from Indiana University in 1990, Noland took the leap from Children's Librarian to Branch Manager in 1991. He enjoys Old School Funk Music, and listening to library books on tape while riding into work.
Westwood maintains a diverse staff of 10-12 people possessing varying backgrounds, interests and life experiences. Their attributes blend cohesively in their collective effort to promote “Intellectual Freedom” and create a welcoming library atmosphere on Dayton’s west side.
The variety of partnerships developed by the Westwood Branch staff demonstrates the vibrancy and vitality of this small branch in this active community. Working together with the Southwest Priority Board and Westwood Collaborative Network, the Library strengthens the neighborhood. Partnerships with nonprofits such as Family Unity ’95 and the Wesley Community Center keep the Branch as an integral partner for youth, families, and seniors. And of course, their strong commitment to education is demonstrated in partnerships with Dayton Boys Preparatory, Edison K-8. Residence Park K-8, Mary Queen of Peace, Westwood K-8, and Thurgood Marshall High School.
An expansive new West Branch Library will be built at the corner of Abbey Avenue and Route 35 on the site of the original Wright Airplane Factory – just a block off of West Third Street and less than a mile from the current Madden Hills and Westwood Branches. After a delay to finalized details related to site acquisition, design work is getting underway in summer 2017. The state-of-the-art facility is scheduled for completion in mid-2019.