After a decade of welcoming patrons, tutoring kids and sharing book recommendations, Eleanor Bertin has retired from the Stettler Public Library.
Bertin joined the library in November 2014, shortly after her youngest child no longer needed homeschooling. She had a part-time front desk circulation role and tutored children while writing library columns for the Stettler Independent.
But she says it was the people—both staff and patrons—that made her work most rewarding.
“I've really enjoyed getting to know all kinds of different people and the familiar faces. We kind of get to know who they are just by the books they read,” said Bertin.
Even as digital options grow, she believes libraries continue to play a key role for youth.
“They are taking out graphic novels and all kinds of books and resources,” she said. “Our library has a whole bank of computers that are always full in the summer or when school’s out with kids playing games with each other, or on their own.”
A published author, Bertin is now working on her seventh book, Flare of Doubt, scheduled for release in early February. She writes contemporary Christian fiction, with two series already completed, along with a memoir about her late son who passed away in 2012.
She credits author Jamie Langston Turner as one of her inspirations, admiring her writing style.
“It's slow paced and detailed, and I love what she does with characters,” Bertin said.
In retirement, she plans to spend more time with family and friends, while keeping up with her writing. She also believes libraries will continue to adapt while maintaining their role as community hubs.
“The written word, whether it’s the Gutenberg printing press or AI, is always something that needs to be curated and disseminated,” she said. “It’s a beautiful thing and the people that are involved are beautiful people.”
You can visit Bertin's website to learn more about her books.
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