Barth stepping down from as director of Clinton Presidential Library

Dr. Jay Barth said he is leaving his post as director of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library after 3 1/2 years at the helm.

In a post on his personal Facebook page, Barth said it had been an honor to serve, but it is time to move on.

“I want to thank my team at the Clinton Library for what we’ve accomplished over the last few years,” Barth wrote. “The results are reflected in the amazing archival and digitization numbers, the outstanding temporary and digital exhibits, the new public outreach programs, the excellent professional development programs for teachers, and the community partnerships that have made our work more powerful and visible.

“Some of our team at the Library recently read ‘Who Is Government?,’ the book edited by Michael Lewis. The essayists in that book highlight the dedication, the innovation, and the commitment to serving others expressed by the federal workers who are highlighted in the book. That’s exactly what I’ve seen every day from the folks who work at the Clinton Library, even during recent months when life in the federal workplace has been distinctly challenging — I so greatly admire their fundamental commitment to public service.

“I also want to thank President (Bill) Clinton and Secretary (Hillary) Clinton for their trust they gave me in directing the library. As is the unique nature of the relationship between presidential libraries and presidential foundations, I’ve worked daily with the team at the Clinton Foundation led by Stephanie Streett. I appreciate the kindness and professionalism they’ve showed me. The Clinton School of Public Service team, led by Dean Vicki Soto, have also been vital partners in the distinctively collaborative community that exists at the Clinton Presidential Center.”

Barth, a former political science professor at Hendrix College, said he does not have a new job to announce, but he hinted he could return to teaching.

“… I’ve decided that it’s time to leave federal government service as of mid-October,” Barth said. “I feel a need to transition my professional energies to social change projects and also look forward to a return to the classroom and to writing.”