I watch my children change and grow daily. Time goes by so fast, in both our personal and professional lives. I have been a librarian for many years and observed many innovations. The phrase, "you aren't in Kansas, anymore" comes readily to mind when I think of what libraries used to be and where they are headed. My Homer community, once quite rural, and my local library have seen intense change, including staggering growth. Homer Library celebrates 25 years of excellence in service this year.
Roles Add Meaning to Our Lives
The past shapes us. Roles that I enjoy (some past, many current) include: library director, writer, art teacher, consultant, neverending student, public librarian, grant teacher, mentor, synergist, Chamber of Commerce president, Nature Foundation board member, ILEBP trustee, blogger, mother, wife, partner, and friend.
All of these responsibilities, opportunities, and achievements have molded and placed me at this exact moment in my life. I feel great contentment and delight in each day. As the director of a pro-active public library we remain cutting edge even with a flat budget. Creative and dedicated staff makes the difference along with strong partnerships and outreach; all support our goal to provide the best in services. Just like my children constantly amaze and make me proud, so too, does my library staff and my positive work as director and community advocate.
Find Your Passion!
I am happy and satisfied on so many levels, both personal and professional. Each day comes to me as an opportunity to help others. I enjoy my children, family and lovely friends, and work hard at a job I simply love. Life is about choice and finding your passion. Surround yourself with work you enjoy, people who matter to you, who care about you in return, and take good care of them and of your extended community. This is a gift I give to myself daily and a responsibility I take seriously.
Be Happy & Put Yourself Out There
I hope you have your own moments of reflection. I am a better person for my community service efforts and for the time that I give to others, to simply share my own personal bounty and joy. As a parent, librarian, colleague and friend, I am proud that I can make a difference, and that I do. Isn't that what life is all about?
