Welcome to my first column as director of the Bella Vista Library.
I have read some of the previous director's newspaper columns, and I realize that I have some big shoes to fill! Joni's columns were interesting, informative and entertaining. I will not even try to fill her shoes! I will try, however, to share with you my heart and my love for Bella Vista and the Bella Vista Library.
I would like to begin by saying a big thank you to Joni for blazing the path. You left Bella Vista Library in wonderful shape, and for that I thank you. This community loves you, and the library will be forever indebted to you for your care and leadership.
I also want to thank the staff and volunteers at the library for making this transition so easy for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to live and work in the Ozarks, which I like to call "God's Country." I still can't believe that I have been so blessed to be asked to lead this library into the future. The staff and volunteers are being very patient with me as I try to maneuver this new path. I know it isn't easy for you all to have a new person come in and do things a little differently, but I thank you for your patience and your understanding.
I would also like to publicly thank my husband and my mom, who have moved to the Ozarks with me as I embark on this new adventure. Your love and support mean everything to me. It hasn't been an easy move, but you have been there for me every day. Thank you.
To the citizens of Bella Vista, I hope you are all aware of what a magical place our library is. This place is constantly buzzing with events and activities. Our little library in the woods has more things going on than many large libraries, and most of the activities are done by volunteers! Just since I have been here, a volunteer has offered to help with our Preschool Story Time, and another volunteer has started a program for homeschoolers. Just this morning, a person new to the community came in and asked if she could share her talents with our library patrons.
It is because of the wonderful citizens of Bella Vista -- volunteers and patrons alike -- that our library is such a wonderful place. We simply could not do what we do without the support of our community. Thank you all!
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Wright is director of the Bella Vista Public Library. The opinions expressed in this column don't necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper.
Community on 09/17/2014