For the Love of Libraries
This week’s column was written by Dallas Husar, library assistant at Invermere Public Library, located at 201 7th Avenue. Visit their website or call 250-342-6416 for more information.
Summer has come and gone, and so has another busy season at the Invermere Public Library (IPL).
Quiet days at IPL are few and far between and seem to grow smaller in numbers as the years fly by, and this summer was no exception.
It’s hard to believe Thanksgiving is already behind us. To many, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, eat delicious food, enjoy the beautiful setting we are so fortunate to call home, and reflect on the things we are grateful for in our lives. In my family, regardless of what we have done that weekend, who we are able to gather with, whether we are eating a fancy meal or leftovers, we always take the time to list something we are grateful for.
It gets me thinking about how grateful I am to be part of such an incredible place as the Invermere library. Every day we are fortunate to work as part of a wonderful team. We encourage each other to bring our best every day and celebrate each other’s strengths. The respect we hold for each other is evident and we always support each other. Not every workplace is as lucky, and it doesn’t go unnoticed here.
Our patrons are the best! Walking through the door, we are greeted by smiling faces and excited hellos. Children and adults alike anticipating the latest novel they are taking home, sharing stories of their lives with us, or seeking assistance, knowing we will do our best to help solve their issue. It is so heartwarming how many people allow us glimpses into their lives by sharing tales of their adventures, their families, the books they love, and things they are passionate about. I think I speak on behalf of all of us here at the Invermere Public Library when I say it’s a real honour.
Through our programming we have gotten to know so many patrons. I for one am so grateful I get to be a part of the lives of the children who join our programs. Watching them grow and learn is incredible. I have witnessed babies’ first steps, the discovery of a new talent or mastering of a skill a child didn’t think they would grasp. It’s something that makes me smile all the time. As staff, we are always trying to grow and learn new things and make new connections with residents and patrons. We are grateful for each programming opportunity as it not only offers a chance for others to learn and grow, but for us as well.? And the fact others are willing to take the journey with us is even more special.
We would be remiss not to thank all the volunteers and donors who help make the library the wonderful place it is.
The Friends of the Invermere Public Library are a group of folks who donate their time to fundraise on behalf of the library. They are responsible for the BIG Book Sale, all the Pop-Up Book Sales and the silent auction that takes place every year. This year’s online auction will run November 16-26 here: www.32auctions.com/FOIL2024 and donations of new or like-new items can be dropped off at the library.
These events raise thousands of dollars every year that help the library in many ways. Our board is also made up of community volunteers who help with the operation of the library. Our community consists of many generous individuals and businesses who donate funds towards the operation of the library. Whether it’s a donation of a dollar or thousands of dollars, we are grateful for everyone who has contributed to making IPL the fantastic place it is.
