By Joel van der Veen

DAVIDSON — For Adrienne van der Veen, libraries have always felt like homes away from home.

Growing up in Owen Sound, Ont., she and her two brothers would often go to the public library after school.

There, she developed the habit of being a “voracious reader,” making her way through the Little House on the Prairie series and laughing at the antics of Gordon Korman’s Bruno and Boots.

Adrienne, who was hired this month as the new branch librarian for Davidson, said she’s excited to get started and looking forward to meeting the needs of library users here.

“I really enjoy getting to know people and being with kids,” she said, adding that she wants to be an “ambassador” for the library. “It’s an honour to be here.”

Adrienne grew up in Ontario and moved out west to attend Briercrest College and Seminary in Caronport, Sask., graduating in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in intercultural studies with an emphasis on TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).

She then moved to Moose Jaw, spending most of the next five years as an office administrator for Joe’s Place, a youth centre located in the city’s downtown core.

After her marriage in 2013, she and her husband Joel spent the next year in Moose Jaw, where their daughter Ellie was born in August 2014. They then spent seven months in Stettler, Alta., before moving to Davidson in March 2015.

Since last June, Adrienne has worked occasionally as a substitute at the Davidson branch of Palliser Regional Library.

She had previously volunteered with the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council, reading books to newcomers and helping them find materials of interest at the city library. In Stettler, she helped with a twice-weekly “Read and Rhyme” program.

Adrienne said last week she would like to look at developing new programs, starting with a regular story time for parents and children.

“We’ll explore our options in the future,” she said. “For now, we’ll start small, and grow as we go.”

Audrey Hamm, who serves as chair of the Davidson library board, said she and her colleagues were impressed with Adrienne’s enthusiasm and suggestions.

“It’s a good opportunity for some fresh ideas,” she said, adding that the board is hopeful that Adrienne will help draw younger users to the library.

Previously, September Brooke had served as the Davidson branch librarian, beginning in 1998 and continuing until she was diagnosed with cancer in 2014.

Brooke, who died Jan. 10 at the age of 53, is being recognized by Palliser through the institution of the September Brooke Rural Education Bursary, in honour of her dedication to lifelong learning and teaching.

“September left some big shoes to fill,” said Hamm, adding that despite the sad circumstances, “we’re pretty optimistic that Adrienne’s going to do a great job.”

Adrienne also said she was aware of Brooke’s contributions and dedication: “September’s set the bar pretty high, by all accounts.”

Debbie Shearwood will remain in her current role as assistant librarian. Also currently serving as staff members are Donna Sampson and Betty Maunder.

For the full story, please see the Feb. 15 edition of The Davidson Leader.