No computers—stamps and card catalogues were how books were organized and loaned out at the library when Janis Winter began serving as Community Librarian for Hedley and Princeton.
Then, the move into using book catalogues and microfiche (microfilm capable of accommodating and preserving a considerable number of pages of text, in reduced form.) and then libraries graduated into the computer age.
“I took some courses so the transition to the use of computers was not difficult at all,” said Winter.
She has seen many changes within the Princeton Library, met a lot of interesting people and has worked with some great staff.
“I have really enjoyed working with Sharon, she said, “I am really going to miss her.”
Sharing her most memorable moments, Winter said that the move to the new library (current location) was great. “It is a much better space, it is bright and airy, beautiful building and in a nice location,” she said.
One of the most memorable times was when she and co-workers held book sales, garage sales and walked to Hedley to raise funds to purchase specialized computer equipment for the blind for a local gentleman, Mr. Darrel Rose.
Winter says that her plans for the future include volunteering some time up at Ridgewood Lodge and at some point creating a “Friends of the Library Group,” who will be a group of people who will volunteer to do things like run summer club programs or run book sales in order to provide financial support for things the library can not purchase.
She is really retiring—seriously.
Sharon Dennis will become the new Community Librarian. She says that “It will not be the same without this lady.”
Dennis has enjoyed working with Winter since 2002, “She basically trained me. Janis is a great, wonderful lady to work with,” she said.
Dennis would like to extend an invitation to the community to come and celebrate with Janis. From 12 noon until 5 p.m., on Friday, Oct. 25, residents are invited to come by the library to offer their congratulations and enjoy a piece of cake and a cup of coffee.
Both ladies also extend an open invitation to residents to come into the library— “People think that libraries are just a place to come in, get a book and get out.” Not so any more, says Dennis, “Libraries have changed.”
The librarians say to come in...relax by the fire and read a good book or build a puzzle.
Access to numerous databases including ‘fix it’s, ancestry research, newspapers, periodicals (just to name a few) are available for use at the library.
E-books, e-magazines, music downloads, language learning, internet access—all this is available at the library. Stop in, if you don’t have a library card—ask for a guest pass.
Feel like watching a movie? Well, guess what—DVD movies are also available at the library.
Various programs are offered throughout the year for preschoolers including the upcoming Christmas Craft Day scheduled for Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Pre-register by calling 250-295-6495.
Leaders for Literacy partners with the library to offer free tutorials for adults who are learning to use the computer—sign up in the library.
Want to learn more?—Stop in at the library.