Imagine the knowledge, wisdom and dedication that six decades of combined library experience brings to our community. This month, Sechelt Public Library celebrates the careers of two beloved staff members whose contributions have been invaluable.
Beth Dodds, our public services and interlibrary loan supervisor, retires at the end of November 2024 after 26 years of dedicated service. Beth’s gentle demeanour, patience and unfailing kindness have endeared her to both patrons and staff. Her calm presence has been a guiding force at the library, providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all.
Rose Toenders, who has managed our acquisitions and shaped our library’s collection for 34 remarkable years, is set to retire later in 2025. Rose’s encyclopedic knowledge of our collection and her forward-thinking approach have helped propel Sechelt Library into the future, keeping our community’s evolving needs at the heart of her work.
In their careers, Beth and Rose have experienced the library’s transformation—from stamping due dates on book return cards to integrating digital resources and offering e-books on Libby. They have served multiple generations, meeting the children and grandchildren of their earliest patrons. Beyond the literary component of a library, they’ve guided patrons through challenges, milestones and everyday moments with empathy and dedication. The stories they could share would fill volumes!
As we say goodbye to Beth and anticipate Rose’s retirement next year, we are excited to welcome new talent to our team. The Sechelt Library offers career opportunities for those with a passion for library science and a commitment to community service. If you’re drawn to making a difference through library work and have library education, there may be opportunities upcoming for you.
For now, we cherish this month with Beth as she wraps up a career that has left a lasting impact on the Sunshine Coast. Thank-you Beth!
