Husband of Rocky Top director says board conduct left her with stress-induced heart condition

Jim Harris, speaking during public comment at the Anderson County Library Board meeting, said his wife, Rocky Top Public Library Director Kelly Harris, is on medical leave with stress-induced cardiomyopathy and blamed sustained board conduct for her condition. “Stress-induced cardiomyopathy aka broken heart syndrome occurs when someone is subjected to so much stress that it actually changes the way their heart physically works,” Harris said, adding that his wife “may not be able to come back.”

Harris asked trustees to consider whether their actions had created an atmosphere of fear and stress at library branches. His remarks drew applause from the audience. The board noted Kelly Harris’ absence earlier in the meeting and confirmed she is on medical leave. The comment came amid broader debate about trustees visiting branches, book-review procedures and staffing that trustees said has contributed to tension between board members and library directors.

The board did not take formal action on personnel at the meeting. Trustees were later advised that any questions about the lawsuit naming the board and the county commission should be directed to the law director; an executive session with the law director was scheduled for September to address legal matters.