An employee of the Kitchigami Regional Library System (KRLS) in Minnesota has been accused of multiple serious offenses, including racial and religious discrimination, sexual harassment, and bringing firearms to the workplace. The allegations against tech services manager Tami Beto and library director Melissa Whatley were brought to light by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 65. The union claims that another manager attempted to interfere with the investigation into these serious claims.
On July 17, Troy Bauch, a field director for AFSCME Council 65, submitted a letter to the KRLS Regional Board of Directors detailing the allegations during a monthly meeting held in Pine River on July 24. The letter highlighted a troubling pattern of misconduct involving various employees, which has sparked significant concern among staff and patrons alike.
The KRLS is a library chain with locations throughout Minnesota, including in Bemidji, Brainerd, Park Rapids, and Wadena, with its headquarters situated in Pine River. Beto has been with KRLS since 2018, initially serving as the Pine River branch manager before being promoted to tech services manager in March 2024. Following the allegations, she was placed on administrative leave for over two months, returning to her position in a remote capacity on July 7.
Bauch’s letter asserts that Beto’s continued presence in the workplace has fostered an environment of intimidation and disrespect, contradicting the library’s mission to create a safe space for both staff and visitors. The letter contains complaints from multiple employees, indicating a consistent pattern of inappropriate behavior.
Among the various accusations, the letter details specific incidents of racial and sexual harassment. For instance, one employee reportedly faced racist remarks due to their biracial child, while Beto allegedly participated in mocking another employee’s father’s appearance. Such behavior is described as a serious breach of professional standards, raising concerns about workplace safety and equity.
The letter also alleges that Beto brought a firearm to the workplace and attempted to cover up unsafe working conditions. One employee reported Beto’s reference to bringing a gun, which should have prompted immediate action from KRLS leadership, but according to the union, Director Whatley dismissed these concerns and reinstated Beto without addressing the implications of the allegations.
Investigation findings, conducted by attorney Tessa McEllistrem, concluded on June 26. McEllistrem reported that while some allegations against Beto were substantiated, others were not, attributing disputes to personal conflicts. Nonetheless, she recommended corrective training sessions for Beto and a probationary period to assess improvements in her conduct.
The response from KRLS leadership has drawn criticism. Bauch’s letter pointed out that the investigation, funded by the library system, did not clear Beto of misconduct, and there are concerns about the impartiality of the internal inquiry. Following the union’s letter to the board, KRLS members expressed mixed reactions upon learning of the allegations for the first time at the July 24 meeting.
Board member Lynn Eaton described the situation as immature, while another board member, Joe Gould, stated he believed Beto should be terminated and expressed frustration over the lack of decisive action. Gould is considering requesting a second investigation due to the gravity of the allegations.
The union is now organizing petitions of no confidence against both Beto and Whatley, reflecting the growing discontent among library staff regarding how the situation has been handled. The developments at the Kitchigami Regional Library System highlight significant challenges surrounding workplace culture, safety, and accountability in public service institutions.
