Howarth retiring
For Children’s Librarian Jackie Howarth, one visit to the library literally changed the course of her life.
“I was looking for a part-time job. But first, I had to learn how to write a resume,” Jackie recalled. “I came to the library and got a book on resumes.”
The library happened to be hiring for a part-time position at the Fincastle Library. Jackie thought, “This would be good practice,” so she submitted her newly-written resume to the Director. Shortly after, she was invited to an interview. Again, she thought it was an opportunity to practice her interview skills, never thinking she would get the job.
She got the job. That was nearly 27 years ago, and Jackie has played a crucial role in the Botetourt County Library ever since. She moved from part-time to full-time, from the Fincastle branch to three branches, and from general library services to children’s programming. Countless children have grown to love reading and learning with Ms. Jackie’s entertaining and instructive stories, songs, and lessons.
While Jackie entertains the children, they unwittingly return the favor. Kids love Ms. Jackie, regaling her with funny questions and imaginative stories. One child chose his outfit for the day based on what Ms. Jackie might like. Another child assumed that Ms. Jackie would be at a non-library event at Explore Park – and by sheer coincidence, she was there! Children have been the special bright spot in Jackie’s workdays, even when they’re climbing bookshelves or acting rambunctious.
According to Jackie, the most heartwarming part of the job is “watching the children grow over time.”
“When they first start coming to StoryTime, some children are sitting quietly and frowning,” not participating at all. By the year’s end, every child is singing, dancing, and laughing with the other children. They just blossom,” Jackie noted.
She loves seeing the children connect to a story. “Their emotions are so visible,” Jackie continued. “When the story is sad, they’re sad. When something good is happening, they’re happy.”
As children become immersed in a story, they learn to love books even before they learn to read.
Jackie greatly missed in-person children’s programs during COVID, but she continued to impact others’ lives positively. Calling seniors to help them set up vaccine appointments was especially meaningful. “You could hear the sheer gratitude in their voices,” she noted, to be connected not only with a potentially life-saving vaccine but also with a caring person during a stressful and lonely time.
Jackie is excited to start a new phase of life: retirement. She plans to work on projects at her home in Troutville, enjoy time with her two children and three grandchildren, and travel with her husband, Peter.
The Fincastle Library will host a special retirement party for Jackie on Saturday, April 2nd, 2:30-3:30 p.m. – and you’re invited! RSVP to Sarah Rodgers (srodgers@botetourtva.gov or 540-928-2700). We hope to see you there as we celebrate Jackie’s special contributions to the Botetourt community!
Botetourt Public Libraries
