On April 11th, Kingsley Branch Library celebrated 15 years in their community-funded building. Perhaps more importantly, they celebrated the presence and service of "Miss" Beth Anderson, who has shared her effervescent energy for over 25 years as the beloved Children's Librarian.
Beth Anderson began as a librarian at the Kingsley Public Library in 1997 (before Kingsley Library became a branch of Traverse Area District Library in 1999), bringing weekly storytimes to Kingsley's littlest residents. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to ensure that all children in Kingsley have the opportunity to access the library. "Three storytimes a week, plus most elementary classes visit several times a week, so every elementary kid has seen her," said Branch Manager Amy Barrit. "She has touched a lot of lives." With four children of her own, Beth knows the importance of shaping young readers early on, leading Wigglers Storytime for ages birth-4 years old, and Big Kids Storytime for ages 4 and up. "Miss Beth brings so much life and vitality to the community of Kingsley through the library," says fellow Kingsley librarian, Erin Dixon. "Every child seeks out Miss Beth when they come to the library. Her storytimes are so much fun with books, music and movement, crafts, and playtime. She is always spreading a love for literacy and learning with our patrons."
The scene was set, the Village Community Room splashed with banners of color and heartfelt messages, made especially for Miss Beth by Kingsley Elementary students, and the community turned out! With over 200 guests and 9&10 News in attendance, it was a roaring good time! We even got to see a small example of Miss Beth's impression on young readers with a special "storytime" presented by Lucy Graves and Bristol Helmreich, whom Beth began seeing at the library before they were even born!
To see more photos, check out KBL's Facebook album - Miss Beth Celebration!
We would like to again formally thank Miss Beth for her years of devotion to the community of Kingsley, and wish to remind everyone that this was NOT a retirement announcement! :)