New Bedford Library Director’s Contract Not Renewed

The disappearance of nearly 200 library books checked out with dead men's library cards has led to a change at the top of the city's library department.

New Bedford library director Stephen Fulchino's contract was not renewed in a unanimous decision by the Board of Trustees Wednesday. Trustee Chairman Mayor Jon Mitchell says Fulchino failed to alert the Board to the disappearance of the books, and the subsequent thousands of dollars in late fees.

Fulchino's lawyer, Attorney Phillip Beauregard noted the brevity of Wednesday's meeting, and alleges there is political motivation involved in the non-renewal.

Beauregard says Fulchino informed a SAILS library network representative, and a DPI worker of the alleged actions of Casa Da Saudade director Judith Downey.

Fulchino and Downey have been placed on administrative leave as police continue to investigate the matter.