The future is bright for the Irricana Public Library.
In recent months, the library has seen increased programming, more advanced technology and a higher level of customer service.
Trudy Whitfield, chair of the library board, attributes much of that improvement to library manager Laura Blanton.
“She had incredible customer service and also the knowledge of how libraries are actually supposed to be run,” said Whitfield.
Unfortunately, after just six months of service, Blanton has relocated with her husband to Ottawa.
Whitfield said the board is disappointed.
“We really are sad to lose her,” said Whitfield. “Laura Blanton has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to our little country library. Although Laura was with us for just over six months, our library has seen an increase in the quality and quantity of services available to our patrons.”
Despite this loss, the organization is looking forward to creating an even better facility.
“It is a very exciting future,” said Whitefield. “There is no limit to what a library can do.”
Currently, the library, which is now 25 years old, offers several specialized services including reading programs for kids, computer programs for seniors and free video conferencing for patrons.
As part of the Marigold Library System, it offers access to thousands of books and research material.
The organization is in the process of public consultation to help determine the needs of patrons, which includes residents of Irricana and the surrounding rural area.
In the future, the library board is hoping to move to a larger space, said Whitfield, adding that Marigold representatives identified the need for a larger library some time ago.
“We know we need more space so we can offer more programs,” said Whitfield. “We need space so that we can bring more of the community into the library.”
With the loss of Blanton, the library board is actively seeking a new manager, and hopes to have one in place by the end of September.
Whitfield said the job would appeal to someone interested in further enhancing and shaping library programs.
“As it is a part-time position of 20 hours per week, it is perfect for a person who wants to work fewer hours than the standard 40 hour week,” said Whitfield. “Of course, we will be looking for that perfect match of caring customer service and the passion for all that encompasses a modern-day library.”
As the Government of Alberta has set education standards for librarians employed by municipal libraries, the library board will be looking for a person who is either a graduate of a provincial Library Information Technology Diploma program or who is prepared to take SAIT Polytechnic’s long-distance Library Operations Assistant course while employed at the library.
Whitfield said applicants should either be a resident of Irricana or willing to relocate.
“We are looking for someone who is very high in customer service,” said Whitfield. “Personality is really important, but so is the technical aspect.”
Interested applicants are encouraged to email their resumes to Whitfield at [email protected]
