Librarian, deputy city clerk announce retirements

DOWNEY - All good things must end, as they say.Today (Sept. 2) is Nancy Messineo's last day as city librarian since assuming the position in August of 2006, to spend more time with her family, especially with her first ever granddaughter she's absolutely crazy about and who turns one this month. Joyce Doyle, who has served the city a total of 27 years, the last nine years as chief deputy city clerk, is also bidding adieu tomorrow (Sept. 3) to an accumulation of "valued" friends, associates, and residents she's served over the years, to be able to "spend more time in the High Sierras enjoying the wonders of nature." Nancy, holder of a BA in English literature from CSULB and a master's in library science (Beta Phi Mu) from USC, spent many years as an administrator for the Long Beach Public Library and, just prior to joining Downey's administrative team four years ago, was one of two associate directors at the vast multi-branch Long Beach library network. During her stint here, she's credited with the launching and vibrancy of the library's 'One Book, One Community' programs, the successful 'Early Learning for Families' grant program, and the weekly 'Family Story Night' series. Library secretary Christina Anderson, one of her most trusted associates, said her staff, patrons, Library Advisory Board, Friends of the Library colleagues, and library volunteers will all miss her "generous spirit, caring attitude and commitment" to the community. Taking over her duties as interim city librarian is community services director Thad Phillips. Joyce, who grew up in Downey and calls herself a local gal, reentered the city's workforce in March of 1987 as executive secretary in the city clerk's office after an interregnum spent in Santa Barbara. She said she's truly enjoyed her work and found it interesting to work for 21 different city council members as well as a succession of three city clerks over the past 23 years. With an associate arts degree in business and attaining her certified municipal clerk status in 2000, Joyce said she has "loved working for the city she has called home just about her entire life."

********** Published: September 2, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 20