Library director placed on administrative leave

NORWICH – The director of Guernsey Memorial Library was placed on administrative leave Friday afternoon, pending further action.

Library Board President Craig Lawson confirmed that the board decided to suspend Director Melanie Battoe last week during an executive session.

The suspension was the result of an audit compiled by the New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli that found Battoe had made more than $15,000 in questionable purchases between July of 2005 and August of 2007. The purchases included items such as restaurant meals, groceries, beverages, gifts and other questionable items.

The audit also found Battoe’s husband received $7,800 for computer repairs and service without proper authority or a written contract.