On October 1st, I began my twentieth year as a librarian for the Mason-Dixon Public Library. My journey into librarianship was unusual. After being a stay-at-home mom for many years I decided to look for a job as my oldest child was off to her freshman year in college. My two teenage sons were busy with school and friends and I was ready to start a new chapter in my life. As a double major in Art and English I wasn’t thinking about becoming a librarian, although I had considered writing and illustrating children’s books for most of my life. But when my local librarian passed away, the Board of Directors announced the job opening. So after not working outside the home for twenty years I was hired as a full- time librarian with the promise of attending graduate school.
These last twenty years have produced many wonderful things: a medical school graduate, Master’s degrees for both sons and myself, two successful businesses going strong and the construction of a new 10,000 square foot library building. The Mason-Dixon Public Library opened a 1.5 million dollar facility in June 2004 built with individual pledges and county support which was paid off in less than ten years. The community eagerly supported and encouraged this endeavor and we continue to serve as the gathering place for our community.
One never knows how the second act will play out but I know mine could not have been better written. In future blogs I will highlight library programs, book reviews, technology trends, workplace stories and life in general.
Serving my community,
Carol.