A retirement party was held on Wednesday, December 13th, for Debbie Nelson, Children’s Librarian at the Menomonie Public Library.
For almost 20 years, area children have enjoyed Storytime with Miss Debbie. Her calm demeanor, along with her patient and caring personality, made her a natural fit in the Children’s Department.
“Working with the children and families has filled my heart,” said Nelson. “I have loved watching the children go from listening to stories to developing into readers themselves. It’s magical seeing things click and seeing them on that path to learning.”
In appreciation of Nelson’s work with children over the years, the Friends of the Menomonie Public Library are donating a kitchen playset in her honor. Families can expect to see it in the library after the first of the year.
Mayor Randy Knaack presented Nelson with a plaque recognizing and appreciating her many years of service at the library.
“Debbie has impacted so many families in our community,” said Library Director Joleen Sterk. “She is a treasure, and she will be missed.”
Nelson’s position will hopefully be filled sometime this spring. In the meantime, another familiar face, Jodi Bird, former Children’s Librarian and now the Public Service Manager, will take over Storytime.
"We've had some great times together, and I am going to miss seeing her every day." said Bird.
This winter, Storytime will be held one day per week, Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 10:00 am, starting January 10th. A playgroup will be added on Tuesdays from 9:30 am to 10:00 am, beginning January 9th. Both programs will run through the end of February. Storytime and the playgroup are for preschool children attending with a caregiver.
In her retirement, Debbie plans to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and travel with her husband, Jim. She will continue with her scrapbooking business, and of course, she would like to read more.
“It has been an extreme pleasure and honor to work at the library and serve the public,” said Nelson.
