"So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Good-bye"

I’ve been singing a foreshortened version of the good-bye song from "The Sound of Music" at the end of many a story time for almost four years now as the Outreach Coordinator for Northfield Public Library. Tomorrow, sadly, is going to be the last refrain, because I have taken the position as Director of the not-yet-open Lonsdale Public Library.

I am very excited to be steering the ship out of the harbor on its maiden voyage. Not many people get the opportunity to bring a library to life. I am one of the lucky ones. The folks in Lonsdale are so ecstatic about getting a library that their enthusiasm is palpable. I am honored to be at the helm.

A reporter asked me the other day, “Why did you take the job?” It was a startling question and a good one. The answer is I am ready to stretch myself. It’s what I’m compelled to do and it has become a recurring theme in my life. Even though I love my job as Booker, love the people I have come to know through that outreach as well as the ones I have worked with, I know it is time to move on, to become more, to serve even more folks.

I cannot ever thank the great staff at Northfield Public Library and the incomparable Street Shop for their unfailing support, encouragement, patience and devotion to me and Booker. There are so many people who have lent a hand and cheered me on from almost every city department that just thinking about the scope of their commitment humbles me. The City of Northfield has my heart.

It also has my favorite bookmobile, so you can bet I’ll be back to visit her and everyone else who is near and dear to me. Come see me in Lonsdale once I get the library open - or sooner. I’m counting on it because I love you.