It is with a heart full of gratitude that we announce the retirement of Children’s Librarian and Head of Youth Services, Lisa Kleinmann, whose unwavering dedication to the children of Durham and the larger Oyster River Community has sparked countless imaginations and ignited a love for reading that will burn bright for generations to come.
Lisa has been a key component of the success of our Library. For 15 years, Lisa has served as the heart and soul of our Youth Services Department, weaving magic with her storytelling, fostering curiosity with wonder-filled displays, and nurturing a love for books, stories, and songs that have transcended the library’s walls.
Always an advocate for the Durham Public Library and children, Lisa was key in facilitating the move to the new library building in 2013 and growing library services to the youth of Durham. She has worked diligently to expand the library’s collection of physical and digital materials and technology. Lisa’s ability to discern the needs of her patrons and our community and deliver quality materials and programming to our youngest patrons in creative and innovative ways is incomparable. For her talents, she was awarded Children’s Librarian of the year in 2016.
More than just a Librarian, Lisa is a friend, a mentor, and a champion to every child who walks through the library doors. With a smile and a boundless spirit, she has created a haven where young minds from babies to teens can explore, dream, and discover the joy of the written word, explore new technologies, and have fun in a safe and welcoming space.
The echoes of laughter, the whispers of shared stories, and the countless adventures and crafts embarked upon within the walls of the Durham Public Library stand as a testament to Lisa’s enduring legacy.
We will all miss Lisa immensely. It’s hard to imagine the library without her big presence. We will miss her big heart and big laugh the most, but though this chapter may be closing, the impact that Lisa has made on all our lives and the countless children she has served will continue to ripple through our community for years to come.
Lisa’s last day will be Friday, February 9th. We hope you will stop by between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm to wish her well as she trades storytimes to write her own stories in her next chapter. |