We here at the Library are in the business of beginnings and endings. Books, collections, eras – we gather and categorize them all. To me, a beginning feels like a bundle of raw nerves and an ending indicates a finality that ushers in a solemn calm. Both are necessary in this journey we call life but as anyone can attest it is the juicy middle bits that create the story.

The Lewistown Public Library and I’s story has been a decade long dance. Ironically, we have had more than one beginning and ending (true dance partners aren’t we). Our story weaves together years of Summer Reading Programs, alphabetical shelving, coffee conversations, book recommendations, IT help, Author Dinners, boiler maintenance, City Commission meetings, budgets, Chili Bowls, gardening, Friends, shoveling, the Library Board, complete connection with my community, joy, sorrow, bright eyed new readers, and people who have read it all….again it’s the juicy middle bits that make the story. And it looks like our big reveal is just around the corner.

My days as the Lewistown Public Library Director are nearing their end. I have dedicated time and energy to the growth of this community and this Library. And, I wouldn’t change a thing. These years have taught me great lessons…less time to read, true, but more moments to grow. I am excited to see what my future holds. But know this Central Montana, I will take the Library and its amazing community with me each and every day. My heart is dedicated to the LPL and to the many people I have become connected to within these walls. Thank You Central Montana for entrusting me with one of our greatest treasures.

Almost every single day that I worked at the LPL I was asked, “What’s your favorite book.” I often answered coyly and redirected the patron to discuss what they loved to read. Bias is a big thing in the library and I didn’t dare assert my own tastes ahead of a patron’s. But as we are coming to an end, and I begin my slow walk out, I offer up a list very few librarians give freely. What follows is a list of my favorite books and authors…a little piece of my heart, given to you, for all that you have given me. Thank You (And yes, this is just the tip of the literary iceberg!).