Serving O'Brien & Clay Counties

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New co-librarians take over in Everly

Big changes are underway at the Everly Public Library.

Jeannett Palmer and Christie Seivert have taken the reigns at the local institution following the resignation of former librarian Amy Byro. The duo have been adjusting to a learning curve, as neither of them have backgrounds in the library field.

"It's been interesting and challenging at the same time," said Palmer. "We've made a lot of changes."

Palmer handles daytime duties from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., while Seivert takes over the night shift on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. Palmer said offering more accommodating hours to patrons was one of the main goals when they took over last month.

The doors have been closed since March due to the pandemic, with only curbside pickup services offered. Palmer said social-distancing guidelines can be easily accommodated since foot traffic at the library is relatively low.

"We are open to the public, and they can come in as they wish," she said.

The pair has rearranged some categories of books as well as different areas of the library. Palmer and Seivert hope to start an evening book club and sponsor more adult activities as well as children's events on Saturdays.

"Right now we're focused on putting books back on the shelves because we've been finding that a lot are in closets or in boxes," Palmer said.

Patrons should check the library's Facebook page and the city's website for upcoming events. Palmer noted local residents have enjoyed the changes and new hours.

"They are so glad to come in and pick out their own books," she said. "They're all getting used to the idea that they can come in again."