There is Hope for Sustainable Libraries

I can’t recall the first time I met Hope Decker, director of the Cohocton Public Library. However, I quickly recognized her presence at STLS workshops and meetings. I also picked-up on her continual Director’s listserv messages. Hope has been known to be one of the most avid users of STLS listservs. She not only provides thoughtful and helpful information, but tends to ask the most questions.

I remember listening to Hope speak at an STLS workshop one year that took place at the Watson Homestead. I believe the intention of the workshop was to gather information from member libraries on STLS’ Plan of Service 2012 – 2016. Hope stood out as a champion for rural public libraries. Many of  the things she added to the discussion pertained to high aspirations for her community and patrons. But, she was also cautious to remind us of the challenges we faced.

Hope’s sentiments have carried over into her work as a library director. As a member of the Director’s Advisory Council, Hope has advocated for the needs of small rural libraries. Her demeanor during meetings has always been very calm. She listens to everyone’s opinions, and respects each library’s differences. Every issue that is discussed comes back to, “How will this impact our smaller community libraries?” Her fellow long-time representative Barb Radigan is also very good at this.

I really connected with Hope when I started following the Cohocton Public Library’s Facebook page. It was at a time when I was looking for new ideas for the David A. Howe Public Library. I was impressed with the level of engagement the Cohocton Public Library had with its community through Facebook. Daily, I would follow posts highlighting programs, displays and comments. The back and forth activity the library had with its community on Facebook was robust. It was as if the library had established a second community for Cohocton, which settled in the digital world.

This week has been fantastic for me. On Tuesday, I met with more than 100 member librarians and trustees at the STLS Annual Meeting and Conference. The networking and storytelling was memorable. I plan on following-up next week about this great event. And, I certainly appreciate and want to thank, once again, everyone who attended and worked tirelessly to make it happen.

However, today is Hope Decker’s last day at the Cohocton Public Library. She will begin her new position at the Pioneer Library System next week. It is bitter-sweet for all of us. We are extremely happy for Hope. We know she will accomplish great things, and impact thousands of people. But, every single one of us will certainly miss her smiling face and optimism within the STLS community.