The Strathmore Municipal Library celebrated the retirement of a long-time employee.
The staff put on a surprise party for library clerk Ilke Schwartz on June 6 to mark her retirement after 19 years of service. The celebration included a slideshow of Schwartz and the staff over the years, and she was presented with a homemade, hardcover book titled A Stoy Well Shelved.
Schwartz first came to the library as a patron before becoming a regular volunteer. After five years of volunteering, she was hired as an employee. She credited a former staff member for encouraging her to get involved.
"As a volunteer, I also learned the other duties, so that it was a real good fit when I was employed," Schwartz said.
Over the years, Schwartz met many staff and volunteers that came and went. One of the biggest changes she experienced in the library was the introduction of social media and its use to promote library programs.
"I always enjoyed being with the people, getting to know the patrons, and running the programs when I was able to," she added.
During her time there, Schwartz led a free sewing class, kids' crafts, and was the go-to health and safety advisor.
"It's just a real happy place to work because you're meeting the public, getting to know them and their families, and trying to steer them in the right direction, because the library is seen as a community resource centre," Schwartz reflected, adding that she will miss the people the most.
In retirement, Schwartz plans to spend more time in her garden.
She also hopes to stay involved in the library's Plant Exchange and Christmas Craft Sale programs.