Behind-the-scenes helpers not unnoticed

By Lanell Smith

It is no secret that I am a huge fan of local libraries, which are an important source of reading resources and learning opportunities. Last week, I was also reminded of the many other services library staff offer behind the scenes but not by any stretch unnoticed by the community.

During my last stop at the Luverne Public Library I was shopping the book sale shelves while another patron worked at one of the free, public-access computers. The young man was clearly struggling through an attempt at creating a resume to submit with a job application and approached the checkout desk for assistance.

Jody Johnson was on duty during my visit and helped the patron find available tools for creating a resume. The patron said he had never made a resume before and had no idea where to start, but Johnson calmly and kindly pointed the way for him.

Libraries offer this type of service in every county. Patrons at the Greenville-Butler County Library can use computers by obtaining a library card and staff are on hand to assist patrons in locating and using software tools and to advise about how to maintain internet security while using public computers. For 25 cents per page, patrons can also print documents or information too.3

While Johnson answered questions on creating a resume, another patron, an elderly man, requested her help to apply for a local job online. Again, she patiently assisted the man who displayed limited knowledge of computer skills, to sign on and begin his application.

People like Johnson quietly assist others every day, going above and beyond the call of duty to aid community members gain access to tools and resources available through libraries.

Ms. Ethel Williams, director at the White Hall public library, hosted an activity in June for Classy Senior Citizens, a community group for senior adults meeting twice a week at the town’s municipal complex.The program educated participants on the many resources available to them through their local library and encouraged seniors to visit the library to learn more.

I have the fondest memories of a librarian, Barbara Strickland, who opened the doors of discovery for me through the Ramer Public Library. She brought reading initiatives into our rural community on a book mobile which later grew to a brick-and-mortar library.

But she did so much more than that, as do local library directors today. Library staff are as great a resource to their community as are the facilities in which they work.

Readers who are not already familiar with services available through area libraries are encouraged to visit and check them out. Whether you are seeking a book or help building a resume, you are bound to find what you need at a local library.

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