Retiring again

By Sherry Larson

People’s Defender

Mary Gaffin is retiring again. The former schoolteacher and high school librarian retired for the first time in 1995 and is closing another chapter, this time at the West Union Public Library.

Gaffin explained that she taught the third grade for a few years and then served as the librarian for Manchester High School. When she retired in 1995, she and her husband planned on having some adventures together. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1996, and those plans never came to fruition.

Volunteering at the library was a decision that led to a significant chapter in Gaffin’s life. She began working there in 1997, cataloging and copy cataloging. Now, at 88 years old, she has dedicated 27 years of her life to the library, working part-time until her retirement on Friday, June 28. Gaffin, who has a daughter in Cincinnati, a son in Florida, and a son who passed away a couple of years ago, found purpose in library work.

She was humble and said, “There are so many other people who have done way more than I have.” But the Director of Adams County Library, Nick Slone, felt recognition was deserved. He said, “Mary’s attention to detail and knowledge of library cataloging is bar none. Her dedication to Adams County Schools for over 30 years, followed by 27 years with the public library, is awe-inspiring. We’ll miss her greatly and wish her all the best.”

What will she do with her newly found free time? “Sleep in until noon,” said Gaffin with a smile. She said jokingly, “I’ve been so deprived. I’ve never been to Paris,” as she pointed to the many cards she received and talked about the “Paris-themed” luncheon the library held for her the day before.

“I’ve had a good life. I’ve been very fortunate that I’ve been healthy,” said Gaffin, who has lived in Adams County since she was a toddler. She attributes her good health to growing up on a farm and making mud pies. Gaffin has enjoyed her time spent working at the West Union Library and said, “I will miss everybody.” She continued, “They’ve all been good memories. The staff are all great.”

In retirement, Gaffin may spend a little time enjoying reading, although she admits to “reading the ends of books.” “You know—the blurb sounds good, and I want to see how it ends,” she said with a chuckle. She added, “I’m not planning on going back to work.”