Lincoln Library head fired over shoplifting charge

SPRINGFIELD -- The head of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield has been fired after his second shoplifting arrest.

Director Rick Beard had been on administrative leave since the arrest was made public last week.

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich fired Beard on Tuesday. A state spokesman says Beard was notified by phone.

Beard was arrested in August and charged with stealing $40 worth of DVDs from a Springfield Target store. The 61-year-old has pleaded not guilty.

Beard also was charged with stealing neckties last year and was sentenced to six months supervision.

There was no answer Tuesday at the only telephone listing for Rick Beard in Springfield.