During this season of thanks and gratitude, I’ve been thinking quite a bit about the many blessings in my life. I know this is typically a time of family gatherings and good cheer, but I feel doubly blessed because I have a “work family” as well, and they are a wonderful group of people! Each and every one of them makes my job easier.

The McClintic Library runs smoothly thanks to Pam Johnson. Believe me when I tell you that she knows everything. Pam is especially good with local history and genealogy research. How lucky we are to have her here! She is always willing to go along with my ideas, and cheerfully gets the job done. Paula Stemple is our numbers expert. All bookkeeping and bill paying goes through Paula, and she does a wonderful job. If you look up “organized” or “efficient” in the dictionary, you’ll see Paula’s smiling face!

The Green Bank Library has benefited from Jane Mospan’s dedication and knowledge for more than 30 years. Jane knows her patrons, and does everything she can to provide materials that she knows they will enjoy. She may seem quiet and reserved, but don’t let that fool you. Jane knows her stuff! Mary Ann Alonso, who helps out part time, can attest to that. Mary Ann does a great job helping with children’s programs, and just keeping the library going in general.

The Hillsboro Library is under the very able command of Elwood Groves. A true gentleman, Elwood has a busy, thriving branch and the respect of his community. He sees the library as a community center and is tireless when it comes to hosting the community within his building. His new assistant, Emily Newton, has been a welcome addition in the past few months. Emily has “Warm welcome” down pat!

I couldn’t find a better fit for the Durbin Library than Nancy Egan. She has taken the building project, and in fact the entire community of Durbin to heart, and works very hard to encourage library usage in her small (and thankfully temporary) space. Nancy is cheerful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic—all qualities that will make our northern-most library a success.

Our newest branch is the Linwood Library at Snowshoe, and we have a real gem in Cree Lahti. Cree is friendly, welcoming and dedicated to providing excellent service and programs. She serves both the community and the many visitors to our beautiful county with a smile and lots of information. Cree is always ready to accommodate her patrons, and hosts some great programs, as well.

The Pocahontas County Free Libraries Board of Trustees is another group of dedicated people with whom I enjoy working. Denise McNeel, Beth Little, Sue Ann Heatherly, Mark Clark and Debbie Goodwin all serve on our board because they love both libraries and Pocahontas County. We would not have such a strong system without their guidance.

I’m also extremely grateful for the many, many volunteers at each branch of the PCFL. They make our libraries stronger and better by giving of themselves. There are too many to list here, but I would like to say thank you, and we all value each and every one of you!
Each person I’ve mentioned here is truly a pleasure to know, and I am honored to work with them to provide quality library services to all of you. Thanks for letting me count my blessings here. The staff and board of the PCFL wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving.