Cooperating Libraries Automated Network (CLAN) has appointed Joan E. Gillespie as its new Executive Director. "We are delighted to have someone with Joan's experience and abilities leading CLAN," said Regina Slezak, president of CLAN's Steering Committee and Director of the Newport Public Library.

Gillespie's most recent position was Executive Director of a similar network in Connecticut known as LION (Libraries Online, Inc.). She holds Master's Degrees in both Library Science and Business Administration. Her prior experience includes work with management and consulting firms, as well as several years in a variety of positions at Wellesley College.

"CLAN is a dynamic information resource at the forefront of 21st century library services," said Gillespie. "I'm looking forward to working with its members to continue CLAN's tradition of delivering quality library services to the people of Rhode Island."

A consortium of all public libraries throughout Rhode Island, CLAN offers remote access to its statewide database of holdings, one statewide library card with borrowing and return privileges at any member library, statewide inter-library loan, high-speed internet access for all member libraries, access to electronic informational databases and cooperative purchasing power.