I wanted to take a moment out of our busy schedules to acknowledge our community members who donate time, money and other important contributions that help make our community great! These people are the unsung heroes of a community doing their part to make this beautiful town a better place for all of us.
This week I want to introduce you to Joanne Stevenson.
Joanne and her husband Dave moved to Grand Valley in 1995 and have 2 grown children.
Joanne has been working for the Grand Valley Library for 17 years. Joanne started out as a Library Assistant which involves administration tasks at the front desk, shelving and sorting books, promoting library programs, facilitating programs, assisting with book selection etc…
In March 2019 Joanne was promoted to Chief Executive Officer at the Library which means she is now in charge of Purchasing, Human Resources, Financials, Administrations etc…
I had an opportunity to sit down with Joanne at the library the other day and was able to chat with her about the Library and her role there over the past 17 years. You can tell from speaking to Joanne that she has a wealth of knowledge about our lovely small-town library as well as enthusiasm for the staff and resources available.
The children’s area is cosy and well stocked with books for all levels as well as Children’s DVD’s and a computer station.
The library has a lovely lounge area where you can grab a book and relax and enjoy some space for reading.
The library has computers available for use if needed for all residents including WiFi access.
I asked Joanne what residents may not know about the library and she said that they have a lot of Online Resources, such as e-books, audiobooks and downloadable music. She also mentioned that they have access to a large database of resources and free park passes with participating provincial parks, museums, conservation areas etc…
As our conversation wrapped up Joanne mentioned that “Libraries aren’t what they used to be, they are not shush places anymore, they are a place for community and warm welcomes”
I for one am grateful for this and I know my kids are as well! If you are in the area please stop in and say hi to Joanne and the other library staff. If you want to know what is happening at the Library you can visit the website here or give them a call at (519) 928-5622 or follow them on Facebook here.
Thank you, Joanne and the other library staff, for your time, efforts and enthusiasm to make our library a welcoming, informative and positive place to be. Our small town and its residents are better because of it!
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