By Peggy Wehrle

What started out as a “fluke” has turned into a 30-year-long commitment for Kathryn “Kitty” Mitchell at Homer Township Public Library. After nearly three decades of serving the community, Mitchell, Youth Services Director, will be retiring in May, 2012.

“I’m one of those lucky people who really love their job,” Mitchell said. Her love of libraries began back in high school where she worked at a local branch over the summer as well as in her own high school’s library. When she was older, a good friend of Mitchell’s mentioned that the library in Homer wanted to start children’s programming. “She suggested I apply, which I did, and I got the job,” Mitchell explained. “It was a total fluke.”

Back then, the library looked much different than it does today. It was located in the library at Reed School, which was not being utilized at the time. “It was a demonstration library, and there were only three employees,” Mitchell said. “There wasn’t even any air conditioning—and I think we rented the space for around a dollar per month!”

Since then, Mitchell has been working in the children’s department and interacting with the kids and their parents. In fact, that interaction is her favorite part of the job. “These kids really love you; a teacher would understand that. They come to me not really knowing how to color, and they leave so proud of themselves and their accomplishments. They start around the age of three and then I have them for about three to four years, so I just love seeing their progress and development,” Mitchell says. “There are people who I’ve read to during story hour in the past, and I read to their children now!”

Mitchell credits the board and library director for the opportunities they’ve provided her with over the years. “We at the library have always been pushed to get outside our own library and interact with librarians from all over the state. I’ve met people who I may never have gotten the chance to meet,” she said.

When asked what she will do on the first day of retirement, Mitchell exclaimed, “Sleep until 8 a.m.!” Traveling with friends, participating in cooking clubs, visiting downtown Chicago, and maybe even taking an art appreciation class are at the top of her to-do list. The next chapter is sure to be a busy one. But maybe she should start by thanking her friend for nudging her to apply at the library those many years ago.

Please visit Homer Township Public Library between May 7^th and 11^th to say goodbye and good luck to the woman who has been reading us stories for 30 years. Congratulations, Kitty!

Alexandra Annen
Adult Services Manager
Homer Township Public Library
14320 W 151st St.
Homer Glen, IL 60491
708.301.7908