Barriere’s library held an open house with cake and coffee on Wednesday, Sept. 19, so residents could get to know Pam Rudd, the new head librarian.
People were given the opportunity to anonymously give suggestions for programs or improvements on an idea board.
Rudd has been working at the library every-other Saturday for years but said for many, she’s still a newcomer.
“People are unnerved by seeing a face that’s not familiar,” said Rudd.
Rudd acquired the position that she calls “my dream job” after former librarian Linda Kelley retired in August. Kelley had worked at the library for 30 years.
The meet and greet was Rudd’s chance to learn what people want for their library, but more than that, she said she wanted to “reassure them that the library is in good hands.”
Rudd has lived in the community since 1983. Even farther back, her family has logged in the area since 1969.
Although her studies and previous jobs have taken her out of town, she said she always felt called home to Barriere. She came home in 1990 and here she has remained and raised her family.
“I’m proud of our community.”
When asked what made this new position her dream job, Rudd said, “I’ve just always had a love for literature and really enjoy sharing that with people. They’re paying me to be surrounded by things I love … it doesn’t get any better than that.”
Rudd aspires to set up more programming for seniors, like book clubs or story times. She said she has “a million ideas” and is excited by the prospects but is still looking into how to go about executing new programming.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be able to serve the community and I’m open to ideas about how to make the library better.”
Fall programs at the library
Tiny Tunes program runs on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. from Sept. 11 to Oct. 20. This program includes songs and rhymes and is for babies, toddlers and their parents or caregivers.
The Lego Club is a drop-in free play on Saturdays, 11 a.m., from Sept. 15 to Nov. 17.
Book Club for adults will be meeting at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month from September to February. A copy of the book will be provided when you sign up.
Yarn and Yap is returning on Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m. September to November for those who knit, crochet, do needlepoint or cross stich.
Technology support is provided at the library. These are free, one-on-one 30-minute sessions. You can bring in whatever device you need help with.
The Genealogy Group and the Writer’s Group also meet at the library. For more information about these groups, contact Margaret at 250-672-9330 or phone the library at 250-672-5811.