This time of year is one of reflection, and the Whitman Public Library has much to remember.  We started the year with a popular “Job Resource Week” that helped residents hone their resume writing skills and in some instances, helped people find jobs or negotiate higher salaries.  This series was followed by me speaking at the Statehouse in the spring and again for a state organization in the fall about how libraries are essential during tough economic times.  At this writing, over nine percent of Whitman residents who can work are currently unemployed.  Many people don’t necessarily think of the library as a tool in this situation, but we certainly can be.  We provide access to the Internet to apply for jobs online, something that is becoming mandatory in many companies, and we have many print resources to help people with interview skills and sharper communication styles.  We have a terrific staff that can help guide people to the resources they need.  We also care deeply about upholding a person’s right to privacy, so we promise to deal tactfully and privately with this and other sensitive issues that arise.  In that vein, we also have materials and resources on managing finances, health concerns, and relationships.

Throughout the year we focused on teen services and health issues, both of which we were awarded grants to pursue.  We had fantastic turnout for programs like Zumba and hand massages, and teens were excited by two Wizard Rock concerts, as well as weekly “teen spaces” where they could gather to do homework, play games, and just hang out in a safe environment.  These were accompanied by other programs like a folk concert, a visit from Amy McKinnon, author of the locally-based novel “Tethered,” and a first ever Community Reads series of events.  Just last week we had a waiting list for a holiday floral design program, and we hope to have similar events in the future. We have many great kids and family programs sponsored by the Friends of the Whitman Public Library, including the extremely busy Summer Reading Program.  We’re already planning for next summer, and it’s sure to be as great as those in the past.

This year we were charmed by Becca Krznarich, our Adult Services and Reference Librarian who left in the fall to move to California with her brand-new husband and pursue her dream of modeling.  Becca greeted everyone with a smile that beamed across the room, and her enthusiasm and energy were enough to knock the socks off anyone entering the building.  She is replaced by Jessi Finnie, another charmer of the southern variety who has, in three short months, impressed everyone with her creative ideas for programming, professional views of reference services, and a distinct sense of humor that meshes perfectly with the other friendly and familial staff.  We were sad to see Becca go, and, for those of you who loved her, she’s living a full and fulfilling life in LA, but we’re delighted with Jessi and hope you’ll come in to meet her if you haven’t already. 

When you’re reflecting back on your year, and enjoying your celebrations, I hope you’ll think about the Whitman Public Library and what role we’ve played in your life this year.  If you have a moment, I’d love to hear about it.  You can send me a letter at 100 Webster Street, send me an e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or give me a call at 781-447-7613 ext. 15.  Cheers!