Library smile will be missed

To the editor:
Friday, Dec. 31 was her last day at the Jay County Public Library. Almost 30 years and countless books checked in and out. She was also who was called the “late lady,” because she kept track of the overdue books. This is how we came to know her as my daughter seemed to always have overdue books. In case you don’t know by now, I’m referring to Gisela LeMaster.
My daughter Angie was 4-years-old when we would go to the library and see Gisela at the desk with the biggest smile. She gave that to everyone that came through the door. Angie was always say, “Mommy, she’s pretty.” As the years we by we kept the overdue fund going as even though I tried to teach her to keep track of her books’ due date she was never on time. She would always tell Gisela she was sorry then tell me, “mom, she’s not upset. You are.”
Gisela would laugh. That continued I think until Angie was in high school and drove herself to the library. But neither of us ever forgot Gisela with the nicest smile. If you happened to be a “phone person” and she answered the phone you learned her voice, or at least I did. I, for one, will miss that voice and smile. I’s not that the rest of the crew are not nice and friendly, it’s just that we made a connection with Gisela early on.
So, Gisela, I will miss you. You’ve earned your retirement and I wish you all the best. I may have to call you from time to time to check on you and hear the voice, even though I’ll miss the smile. I checked; she said that was O.K. If you haven’t visited our great library, please do so — you’ll never find a better crew or nicer library. We should all be proud.
Thanks Gisela.
Penny Imel
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