Deschutes Public Library Director Todd Dunkelberg announced his plans to retire from his position effective September 2026, concluding a 16-year tenure as director and 26 years with the library system. Dunkelberg made the announcement to the library board during their November 12 meeting, and followed up with a message to library staff the morning of November 13.
“Serving the residents of Deschutes County, and working alongside dynamic staff members dedicated to the same service, has been an honor,” Dunkelberg said. “I am proud of the work we’ve done together, and look forward to watching this vibrant library system continue to grow and serve the community at the highest level.”
“From the Great Recession to COVID, and most recently shepherding the district through a series of bond projects, Todd has tirelessly served both staff and community,” said Ann Malkin, who has been on the Library Board since 2007. “He’s faced a series of challenges, and each time he prioritized keeping the library accessible to the public, and keeping staff employed. The Board is grateful for his service.”
Malkin says the board will appoint a recruiting team to begin the search for a new library director. The position is expected to post in January, kicking off a national search. The new director will overlap with Dunkelberg during a four-to-six-week transition period.
Dunkelberg began his library career as a children’s librarian after graduating from the University of Texas library school. In 1999 he moved to Central Oregon to manage the Redmond Library. He was promoted to Assistant Director in 2002, and was hired as Library Director in 2009.
