Jim didn't want a traditional retirement party. "Too many greenhouse gas emissions, not to mention unwanted calories," he said. So instead we are having a Virtual Retirement Party - carbon neutral and heart healthy!

To celebrate, Jim wants all his colleagues and associates to post a good wish, photo or a memory to this blog. You can even ask Jim a question. Jim will reply to every post! (Jim will be the only person able to comment on messages after they are posted).

And while you're at it, Jim hopes you will consider a donation in his honor to his favorite charity, our own Talking Book and Braille Services.

Please submit your message before Jim retires on December 30, 2011. Include your name at the end of your message.

Saturday, December 31, 2011

On the Road Again!

Jim,

It has been my pleasure and honor to work for you these past 11 years as your administrative assistant and the volunteer program coordinator. I have had the opportunity to participate in Board meetings and see how much impact your passion for library service has been a benefit for Oregon. Over the years I have learned much from your P.S. from the State Librarian articles in the LTLO...and especially like your book reviews at the end of the year. Our trips to Board meetings in places around Oregon were filled with interesting conversations and restaurant critiques for good eating on the road. Thank you for sharing stories of your many interesting travels in your life. I look forward to hearing about your future adventures and I hope there will be many!

We will miss you at the library and look forward to up-dates of your travels...maybe an article - P.S. from Citizen Jim?

--Robin Speer

Friday, December 30, 2011

Smart and savvy...yes, but such a nice guy, too

Dear Jim,
Thank you for your sterling service to Oregon's libraries and their supporters. It's been an honor and a pleasure to know you as the State Librarian and to observe the warmth and wisdom that you gracefully demonstrate in guiding and leading those of us who need to learn what you already know. Congratulations and best wishes on an adventurous and happy retirement. Richard's absolutely right, you will be missed, and I shall miss you every single time I have a library question that Multnomah County cannot answer!
Susan Hathaway-Marxer

Happy Retirement!

Jim,

The time has come for me to wish you well on your next journey. I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to have worked under your leadership at the State Library. I can hear your footsteps now, as they slowly stop at my door, your head peeks in, and eyes glimmering with thoughts, ideas, and one request … Diane, do you have a minute? All I can think of is … Oh boy, what have I gotten myself into now. As always, yes, always, your thoughts and ideas shed a different light on things, lead us on a brighter path, and of course more work for me (tee hee). I will definitely miss those times and you too.

Thank you Jim for your many contributions that transformed this agency, and your drive and commitment for the library field that shows in libraries after libraries throughout Oregon. Job well done!

Wishing you the best,
Diane Ballard, HR Manager
Oregon State Library

praise and more praise

Dear Jim,
Today, I believe, is your last official day as our State Librarian.
You will always be Oregon's State Librarian Emeritus to me.
For years you've been sending the word out to our library system about
the annual January William Stafford Birthday Celebrations I organize.
Because of your efforts, libraries all over this state have joined in.
For the past year and a half, you've supported my efforts to bring
poetry to Oregon libraries large and small, from Rockaway to Baker
City, from Christmas Valley to Hermiston. A Poet Laureate couldn't
ask for a better partner!
This past year you helped me support Tavern Books' Community Project,
which intends to place a poetry collection in any small rural or
tribal library that requests one. Thanks to your help, Tavern Books
is delivering those collections to grateful librarians.
For years and years, you've been the leader and defender of our Oregon
library system. Our libraries. I've been privileged to visit many of
them, and each time I walk into an Oregon library, I'm struck by the
role it plays in its community. Our libraries are the hubs of their
communities.
On February 15th, at the event honoring you at Portland's Central
Library, I'll be in the front row cheering. And I'll be only one of
many.
Thank you, Jim. I thank you for all the Oregonians who benefit from
their public libraries. I thank you for Dylan and Elena, my
grandchildren who haunt the Hollywood Library in their NE Portland
neighborhood. I thank you for every Oregon library fan.
With admiration,
Paulann

You will be missed!

Hi Jim,
I always find myself waiting until the last minute to say good-bye to people I really care about.
I have thoroughly enjoyed working with you as a member of the Library Board.  You taught me a great deal by example as well as by sharing so much good information to help me do my job on the board.  Your dedication to accessibility made a huge difference for me.  I am extremely sad to see you go, but at the same time, I hope you have a marvelous time in retirement!  I will always think of you when a new piece of technology comes out.
Warmest Regards,
Richard

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Thanks for your support


Dear Jim,
I want to thank you for your vision and support of the Horner Exchange Program with Fujian, our sister province in China.  The program is one of only two exchange programs in the country run by a state library association.  The program has changed, and improved, under your guidance, providing opportunities for Oregon librarians to engage in international library activities – whether being part of the traveling delegation to Fujian or hosting guests at our libraries here.  Your dedication to  the exchange helped it to evolve from a single Oregonian visiting China every other year to 3 librarians visiting every 3 years, with additional funding from the state library and overall management provided by the OLA IRRT.  I was most impressed by the description this past summer, during the visit of Chinese library directors, of the many ways in which the exchanges and other related activities have influenced libraries in Fujian.  Your work as state librarian has extended around the globe.
I wish you many good wishes in retirement, good health to enjoy yourself, and best of luck in all that you pursue in the future.
Sincerely,
Richard Sapon-White
Oregon State University Libraries
And
Horner Exchange Coordinator
International Relations Round Table
Oregon Library Association

Thanks for Your Confidence & Soup

My main thanks is for the confidence you extended when you and Gail absolutely insisted I was capable of chairing the 2006 Oregon Library Association conference. At first I was horrified at the thought of heading such a major event for Oregon libraries but at Gail's insistence I gradually accepted the idea and was gratified that it became the highest grossing conference to that date. The confidence I gained, along with the networking opportunities I garnered, set me up to become the chair of the Public Library Division, something I would have never even considered BC (Before Conference).
And a hearty congratulations on your retirement. I'm sure you will enjoy it as much as my husband does and I'm sure you will be catering to Ann's every need.
And for the soup, well, I hear you will be doing a lot of mushroom hunting and the soup Ann shared with library folks was divine so I'm looking forward to more being cooked.
Take care and best of luck.
Robin Beerbower

Your retirement

Jim,
I can’t believe that you are really going to retire.  It is clear that you will be missed by many folks in the field of library services, both in Oregon and nationally.  Personally, I have two distinct sets of memories to share with you. 

The first set was the great help you provided to the newly-elected (& first-ever) board of directors of the then newly-created Lincoln County Library District back in 1989.  Your advice was invaluable to us as we began to figure out how to establish library services for residents in areas of the county which had no ‘free’ service. 

My second set of memories relates to the help and encouragement you and your staff provided when I took on the creation of the “Handbook for Trustees of Oregon Public Libraries” in 1998 and again in 2005. 

I arrived in Oregon about 15 years ahead of your arrival in 1986, so I knew several earlier State Librarians.  I have no hesitation in saying that you have been the best.  -  Ruthanne Lidman


Congratulations and thanks

Dear Jim,
In the mid-1990s, you convinced this brand new librarian to do public demonstrations of a new service called the World Wide Web.  What a shock when over 250 people attended each session! Somehow you knew this technology was going to change society and wanted libraries to be at the forefront.
I quickly learned this was your modus operandi:  look far into the future and then convince library leaders that we should be prepared—excited, even!—for what was coming.
I will miss how you have kindly cajoled us to embrace new possibilities, while still affirming the fundamentals of books, reading and literacy. Your support and encouragement changed the trajectory of my career, too, and I’m forever thankful.
Thank you for all the gentle nudges that you have provided to Oregon libraries and to those of us lucky enough to work in them.  Best wishes for a wonderful retirement!
Abigail Elder, Tualatin Public Library


dear jim, thanks

Dear Jim,
Thanks.
Over the past couple of years I've had the pleasure of watching you
work, and of sharing in that work a tiny bit myself. There are a couple
of things I've noticed. I've noticed how you are never afraid to say
what you think, yet you have the political mind to know when to keep
your mouth shut. I've noticed that you know all the in and outs of all
the rules but aren't hidebound by them. I've noticed that you listen.
I've noticed that you are willing to take risks and that you've
demonstrated that there is usually more than one way to do anything.
I've noticed that you sometimes change your mind (sometimes) and it is
always for the right reasons. Our community of libraries in Oregon has
been lucky to have you. You are dependable and rare, and I will miss you.
Caleb Tucker-Raymond

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Oh the memories

Hi Jim,
This is a voice from your past.

You have been a strong leader and great mentor to all Oregon Libraries. I remember when you first came to Oregon. We were a small group of libraries on the east side. Small but mighty. We were enthusiastic and ready to take on any challenges. I was amazed when state library people traveled all the way across the state to attend our meetings. You brought discarded books and workshops and you listened to us and what we were trying to accomplish and you helped!!!! I still remember the 3 day meeting at Wallowa Lake.

You showed us what a state library should do for their libraries and as I moved on in my career, I demanded the same of the state libraries where I worked. When I myself started working at the State Library of Nevada, I tried to treat the Nevada libraries like you treated the Oregon libraries.

Thanks for all your help and guidance and friendship. I wish you well in your retirement.

Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.
Phyllis Sargent
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

retirement

Jim,

I remember when you first came out to Oregon from Texas. It was just great to have another Texan on the OLA Board. You sounded like my brother (from Austin) and restlessly shook your leg like my daddy - I felt at home with you right away. We could talk about Blue Bell ice cream and other important things. And you were so helpful as Development Consultant when we added on to our library in Corvallis and built the library in Philomath.

You've been a terrific State Librarian and accomplished much for libraries in Oregon. Your influence helped make it possible for OLA to work with the State Library rather than be in contention with it. (Could you give some tips to Congress?)

What I will miss most is your column. You were on target with issues of the day, read widely and told us about the books in December each year, and you were quick to praise libraries who had done something original or just very well. You sometimes took unpopular positions, or questioned popular ones. I appreciated your openness, that ability to discuss areas where you might be vulnerable. You're a good writer...maybe you should consider Will Manley's post when he retires his column from AL.

I'm sending you my list of books this year and I encourage you to join goodreads.com so I can follow your reading. Enjoy your State Librarian Emeritus status. I hope to see you again on Amtrak.

Sincerely,
Wyma Jane Rogers
Library Director Emeritus

Jim's Next Chapter

Jim,

I've been putting off writing this because all the other posts seem so eloquent, heart-felt, and better than what I can do. But here goes. Congratulations on a long and successful career at OSL. You reigned over an era of stability at the State Library, and ushered in strategic changes in its service mission that helped it survive and thrive. It's nice to read the Oregonian or listen to OPB and hear the State Librarian quoted on some topic. You definitely raised the profile of librarianship over your term as State Librarian. I have known you since 1987, when I arrived at OSL as the new Coordinator of Access Services. I moved to WCCLS, the position was eliminated and the building remodel eliminated my old office space. But, I don't take it personally!

You have always been a staunch advocate for reading, whether it be support for early literacy or your recommended reading lists. And when it comes down to it, that is the most important thing we librarians can be. Building literacy in Oregon's children (with much help from RTR funds!) improves school success, increases graduation rates, reduces poverty and dependence on social services, and stabilizes families, neighborhoods and communities. Reading rocks!

I wish you all the best as you begin the next chapter of your life. Please feel free to continue posting book recommendations on Libs-Or.

Cheers to you and your family,

Eva Calcagno, Director
Washington County Cooperative Library Services


All the Best!

My visits home to Salem just won't be the same without my ritual visit to the fabulous Oregon State Librarian office!

Thank you for introducing me to the lively and passionate world of Oregon librarians some twenty years ago! It was so much fun to join those voices and help 'push the envelope' to fight for creative funding at a key juncture for some of the step-to-the-future programs others have been lauding here at your party.

Thank you for your help in my transition to grad school and Texas, and all your professional support along the way.

Have a wonderful time in the coming years!

Jan Bargen

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Jim's Retirement

Jim:

How appreciative I am for the kindness which you showed me when I came to Oregon in 1997, not knowing a soul in the entire state. Early on in my tenure at the Siuslaw Public Library, I recall coming to Salem at Mary Ginnane's invitation to tour our lovely state library. Mary had arranged for me to meet you, and you graciously visited with me in your office that day.

Then in 2009, when we dedicated our new library addition, you gave up a Sunday on a President's Day holiday weekend to come and speak at the event. From beginning to end, you have shown me great kindness and for that I will always be grateful.

Have a wonderful retirement, though I am sure it will be anything but retiring.

Steve Skidmore
Siuslaw Public Library
Florence, OR

Monday, December 19, 2011

Jim's virtual retirement party

Dear 378-4367,

How many times have I called that number over the last twenty years? Hundreds! Almost always I was calling to get a quick answer to a question a legislator had just asked me about libraries. Jim's knowledge of Oregon's libraries is so extensive that he usually answered my questions on the spot. And he is so gracious that he never once said, "Didn't you just ask me that last week?"

Thank you, Jim. I'll miss you lots.

Nan Heim
OLA lobbyist

--

Nan Heim/Associates

Thank you

Jim,

Thank you for all the extra work, above and beyond the job description, that you have done for Oregon libraries.

Your tireless efforts, often behind the scenes, to have libraries of all kinds work cooperatively to provide services to all citizens have been exemplary. You have helped to build a spirit of a library system from the many fragments throughout the State. More libraries are working cooperatively than ever before because of your leadership.

It has been especially pleasing to us that you have devoted energy, resources and wisdom to building that spirit of collaboration among school libraries and between school libraries and the greater library community. OSLIS is an example that pays tribute to that leadership.

You have also been vision-builder-in-chief for libraries. We recall your pleading for us to build Wi-Fi capacities into our facilities even before we knew that Wi-Fi had nothing to do with Hi-Fi. Because of your prodding many libraries became the new information centers of their communities.

Your gentle and effective leadership has been very correct in a time when frustration with our taxpayers and elected leaders could have easily been the mode.

You have our very best wishes for a relaxing, meaningful and satisfying retirement.

Jim and Nicki Maxwell

congratulations and best wishes

Jim,
I just want to wish you a long and happy retirement. Your work in COSLA for Talking Books and e-books will be a lasting legacy. Many people across the country will benefit for a long time in the future. We will certainly miss you!
--Wayne

Wayne Onkst

State Librarian & Commissioner

Kentucky
Dept. for Libraries and Archives

Friday, December 16, 2011

Certificate of Appreciation from IMLS

To Jim Scheppke, State Librarian, Oregon State Library

Sent by Kim A. Miller, Management Analyst Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation Institute of Museum and Library Services

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Jim's Posting

December 15, 2011

Jim’s Posting:

I haven’t always agreed with Jim Scheppke or him with me. But if you are coming to the table with a countervailing opinion, buddy…. you better bring your “A” game, because the man you’re going up against is smart, articulate, passionate, and he possesses vision.

Jim has recently referenced past Oregon librarians who have made great contributions to library service in our state. I believe him because he knows more about this than I do. But I know what I know and that is this, in the 28 years I’ve been a working librarian in this state no one has had a greater positive impact on library service in our state than Jim Scheppke. From “bully pulpit” to strategic use of state and federal funds to legislative acumen, he has led, encouraged, supported, cajoled, and “kicked in the ass”, Oregon’s libraries and library staff into the future. He has believed in us and expected us to be better, to do better. And, in no small part, thanks to him, we have.

On more than one occasion he has had the courage to stand before a group of Oregon librarians and tell us to get our collective heads out of our collective ….. well, someplace dark and unenlightened. But on even more occasions there he was encouraging us, inspiring us, leading us to embrace a vision of innovative, high quality, state-wide, library service.

In my own career when I’ve faced difficult times or difficult decisions, Jim has always been there with good and reasoned advice and I know I’m not the only librarian who will say that.

Speaking as an Oregonian, an Oregon Librarian, a colleague, and, hopefully, a friend I can say that I’ve always cared what Jim Scheppke thought and I always will.

Thanks, Jim.

-Rob Everett

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Congratulation on Your Retirement!

Dear Jim,

Sorry, despite your wishes, (what else is new!) I will soon be sending a check enclosed in a Hallmark card for your favorite charity, Talking Books and Braille Services.

And for me, words can’t really express my gratitude for all you did and tried to do. And besides that - you were okay to work with.

Andy

Klamath County

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

A Job Well Done!

Jim,

Thank you so much for your support of Oregon’s Libraries. I have appreciated your wealth of knowledge, understanding of the issues and a willingness to listen to all groups. Your support of OASL has helped us provide leadership for school libraries in Oregon.

Thank you for all of your hard work. You are like the Franklin Roosevelt of our library community. We really can’t remember a time where you have not been at the helm.

Much appreciation, and best wishes for your next adventure.

Kelly

Kelly Bryant
Library Materials Specialist
Southern Oregon Education Service District


on Jim's retirement

Jim and Friends –

It is an honor and pleasure to share some thoughts about Jim Scheppke on his retirement. I don’t remember the details of my first meeting with Jim, but I do remember being immediately struck by his commitment, drive, and passion for our field and the role of libraries and librarians in society. Here was a kindred spirit—someone to partner with to champion libraries and librarians, to bring attention to the essential work we do, and to aim for excellence in every aspect. Jim continually challenged himself and by deed and argument he pushed us to break through limits, even in difficult times. Jim helped us to transform library education at the University of Washington, and I promised Jim that our iSchool was Oregon’s iSchool as well. Together, we greatly expanded the quality and reach of library education in the region, and we consider ourselves as part of the Oregon community. Today, approximately one-third of our online program is made up of Oregon students. Our iSchool is widely recognized as a national leader and Oregon and Jim Scheppke are central to that reputation.

There’s still more to do, of course. But Jim has shown the way and our future is secure as part of his legacy.

Thank you, Jim. It truly has been a privilege to know and work with you.

Best,

Mike Eisenberg
Dean Emeritus and Professor
The Information School (of the Northwest)

Monday, December 12, 2011

Congratulations Jim!

Jim,

I will miss working with you on the OASL Board. When you had a report or suggestions to give, everyone always carefully listened to you because of your expertise, wisdom and excellent ideas. You have contributed so much to school libraries across Oregon. We are especially thankful to you for providing the leadership to create and support OSLIS, the push to pursue a statewide Battle of the Books program and the establishment of a full-time school library liaison position at the State Library. I wish you the best in your retirement!

With many thanks,

Jenny Takeda

OASL Secretary

Beaverton School District

Saturday, December 10, 2011

About Growth

(This is adapted from a brief presentation I gave at the Support Staff Division conference, the theme of which was Growing Together. )

Growth isn’t necessarily good:   consider weeds, or the national debt.

But Jim has been instrumental in fostering the growth of library support staff in Oregon

It’s import to note that Jim has also been instrumental in not growing a few things – his beard, for instance.  But even that he did for a good cause, as a fund-raiser for the library’s charitable fund drive (and beat several staff member, including one with a handle-bar moustache)

And he actually did stop growing something else. One thing that’s popular, currently at least, in government is to cut down on the number of managers.  OSL stopped growing its number of managers long before it was popular.  Switching to team management was a huge undertaking on everyone’s part.  Jim showed willingness to change and grow in his ideas of what team management would look like as we struggled (and still sometimes struggle) to define our roles in a collaborative environment.  Balancing between empowerment and exploitation can be a very tricky thing.  But I think we have grown, as an organization and as individuals, over the years of learning team management.

In terms of fostering growth, SSD is at the top.  It’s an organization that has given many of us the opportunity to grow, learn, and expand our horizons – not to mention making a contribution to the Oregon library community, plus getting to meet and work with some great folks.  However, we can’t grow is we’re not given the right environment and necessary support (as anyone who gardens knows).  I was lucky that, from the beginning, when the Library Support Staff Round Table first started, there was no question that I would be given the same opportunities to participate as my MLS colleagues.  Jim not only provided the support I needed to become active in OLA, he set an example for other managers and library directors to follow.  We didn’t feel like second-class OLA members, but like important co-workers and colleagues.

So thanks, Jim, for all you’ve done to foster growth in the Oregon library community. I know you’ll keep growing in retirement!



Jey Wann
Oregon Documents Coordinator
Oregon State Library

You welcomed me to Oregon

Jim, thanks for welcoming to the OSL staff in March 1993. I clearly remember that OSL was a lively place on my first day of work: it was the Spring Break Quake! Youth coordinators and staff all across the country envied Oregon for dedicating its state aid to youth services, even with a mouthful of a name (CSIG). I always said that it was due to your leadership. So I thank you for all you have done to help connect kids, books and libraries. Enjoy the time to do what you choose after OSL. And your retirement inspired me: I'll join you on July 1, 2012.


--
Ellen Fader
Youth Services Director
Multnomah County Library

Friday, December 9, 2011

your retirement

Jim, although I haven’t worked with you for years and am happily retired myself, it still came as a shock to me that you were retiring. Oregon libraries, big, small, east, west, tribal, public and school, have all benefitted from your attention. And I feel the same way – I benefitted from your suggestions, support and encouragement. Countless people throughout Oregon who have never heard of you or the Oregon State Library having richer lives thanks to you. I wish you and your family a joyous retirement.

Dallas

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Congratulations!

I remember your infectious enthusiasm regarding the Oregon Poet Laureate program! Thanks to you the program is once again thriving and our Laureate is bringing poetry to thousands of Oregonians!!!

Warmly,

Cara Ungar-Gutierrez
Executive Director


Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Thanks for your service!

Congratulations on a fine career! Oregon is so much better for it.

I saw the photos--are you going to grow that beard out again??

Cheers,
Kristy
Oregon Humanities
Kristy Athens, Office Manager




Congratulations Jim

I remember struggling to get our library automated and bring our copy write dates into the new era. With your guidance Jim, I have accomplished this. Being a Public/School library it is a win, win. The students are able to use an up to date library and our community has a public library which they are thrilled about. People do not always agreed on the issue at hand, so it amazed me how you would do everything you could to help once the path was set. This is a trait most people do not hold. Thank you, for all you have done for our little community and for me. Have a great retirement and LOTS of fun.

Best Wishes

Jan Bolton

Spray Public/School Library

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Enjoy your retirement, Jim!

Your virtual retirement party seems very appropriate for a man of ideas. In fact, the reason you have so many wonderful, heartfelt posts is reflected in your personal and thoughtful comments to each and every person. This says volumes (pun intended) about who you are and why everyone is so sad to see you retire. You are the guy in Salem who takes the time to know people everywhere, help communities of all sizes, share your knowledge freely, and maybe most importantly, have fun along the way. I’ve enjoyed reading people’s tales of all the crazy things you’ve done with your colleagues over the years!

Though I’m not a library professional, I do remember all the wise counsel you provided the Heritage Commission when I served on (and temporarily ran) it for those few years. And now, as a member of the Government Research Services Advisory Council, I thought “Oh goody! I get to see Jim Scheppke again,” and you had to up and retire. At least I won’t have to sit next to a jittering leg in meetings with you anymore. J

Jim, I wish you nothing but the best, and I know you won’t stay idle. I look forward to seeing lots more videos on Facebook of your antics with your wonderful kids (thanks to Ann for posting them!), and I hope to see you walking around Salem, as I know you’ll continue to do. Best of luck to you – you will be very much missed in the halls of state government, though we all know Robert will do a superb job.

Julie Curtis | Communications Manager

Oregon Department of State Lands

looking back and looking forward

Jim, you have been a guiding light for me since I came to Salem a dozen years ago. You have shared wonderfully interesting historical information about activities and concerns of other Oregon libraries, as well as helping me understand the background (and future possibilities) of our own in Salem. And it was through your suggestion that I was honored by invitations to speak about Salem history at OSL ~ never holding it against me when I pointed out the unfortunate demolition of Piety Hill for the construction of that same building!
But despite your retirement, many of us will still need your encouragement and counsel. As for me, I look forward to continuing our once-in-a-while lunches to bounce my enthusiasms off your calm reflections.
We aren't history yet!
Virginia

Richly Deserved!

Hi Jim,

All of us at the North Bend Public Library and from the Coos County
Library Service District wish you all the best for your richly deserved
retirement. I truly believe you've had a greater impact on Oregon's
libraries that all previous state librarians combined. Thanks so much
for all your hard work, dedication, mentoring, and visionary leadership
throughout your time with the State Library. Your extraordinary work has
always had a strong focus on helping Oregon's libraries improve services
to their communities. You've been a passionate, powerful advocate for
readers, which has been very inspiring to me, and to librarians and
citizens throughout Oregon. And thanks so much for all your good advice
and nudges for OLA's MLIS Scholarship Program!

I'm wishing you much fun, great times with family and friends, and
plenty of time for reading for many years to come!

Sincerely,

Gary Sharp

--
Gary Sharp

Director of Library Services

North Bend Public Library


"A library is a shelter for the mind and spirit." - Tom McCall

Congratulations and thank you!

Jim,
Thanks for all you've done for Oregon. It's been a pleasure to work with you these past few years. I have learned from you just by listening and observing your involvement in the state. You will be missed.

Congratulations, and enjoy retirement!
Emily Ford

Monday, December 5, 2011

Jim

Best wishes on your well-deserved retirement! Sherman County Public/School Library staff and library board would like to express our sincere thanks for the many years of support that you and your staff have bestowed on our small community. Sherman County was one of the last communities in Oregon without a public library and you were instrumental in providing support to establish a school/public library in 1997, then later in 2009 when we opened a brand new 7,700 square foot library! You always treated us with respect and encouragement even at times when we didn’t always know what we were doing but were working hard to make things work without a Media Specialist. Your enthusiasm for library service to all residents of Oregon has been infectious, in a very good way. Good luck to you. We extend an open invitation to you and Ann to visit us anytime.

Sherman County Public/School Library Staff

Arla Melzer

Jeanney McArthur

Judy Harmon (retired)

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Best wishes

An online retirement retirement party seems fitting, especially in
light of the support that you have given to Oregon's online library
services over the years.

Thank you for everything you have done for Oregon libraries and library users.

You will be missed!

Emily Papagni

Retirement

Congradulations on your retirement Jim. I do wish you well. You have always been a friend of WVGS and a personal friend and we will miss you. Thanks for all you have done for us.

Retirement is just a new phase in your life for you and your family to enjoy - so do make the most of it. If you ever need help on researching your family history don't hesitate to ask your friends in WVGS for any help or guidance we might provide.

Jim Willhite
Retired since 1988
(except for repairing books :)

Friday, December 2, 2011

Congratulations on your retirement!

Dear Jim,


My years as OLA President were made so much easier due to your wise counsel. Thank you for keeping your reports short (you always reported on just 3 things!) and your career long. You accomplished so much because of your passion for books and libraries. We are truly in your debt. Enjoy your retirement, you earned it!


All the best,

Connie


--
Connie Anderson-Cohoon
Reference Services Coordinator
Business/Economics Librarian
Hannon Library
Southern Oregon University

Best Wishes!

Hi, Jim,


I just want you to know how honored I feel to know you and to have worked with you in furthering the interests of the Oregon library community. Your dedication, innovation, leadership skills and perseverance have made such an enormous impact during your tenure. And, your ability to carry this all off with kindness, even-handedness and a wicked sense of humor is just icing on the cake!


I wish you well in your retirement – I can't imagine that you won't still be a force in the library community in some capacity – I certainly hope so.


Supporting TBABS for my holiday charitable donation this year will be a pleasure.


Have fun,

Linda V. Malone

Best wishes

Best wishes to you in your retirement! Thank you for your years of service to the Oregon library community and to Oregon state government.

--Heather

Heather Pitts
Cataloging Services Librarian
Oregon State Library

SSD

Thanks, Jim, for all your support of the Support Staff Division. It has been great working with you over the last year. Have a wonderful retirement!

Susan Bacina
Past-Chair
OLA SSD

Thank you, Jim!

Thank you, Jim, for your tireless support of school libraries, as well as your understanding that while school libraries have unique requirements and challenges, they are one of the essential members of the greater library services family. You helped us gain a political voice, guided us toward working together with other librarians to garner support for school library services, and testified on our behalf.

We couldn't have asked for a greater champion.

Carol Dinges
Past president, OASL
Library Media Specialist
Lebanon High School

Farewell Jim and So Long. . .

Jim,

What I liked best about working with you:

You epitomize this quote from Linus Pauling: the best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas.
Your professional demeanor
Your institutional memory (a la OLA's Board)
Your passion for bringing basic library service to all Oregonians
Your vision for what Oregon libraries can become.

It is hard to put a value on your contributions to Oregon Libraries but if we could, none of us would have a funding problem!

It has been an honor to know you and work with you in OLA, the Statewide Database Licensing Program, and the LSTA program. You have had a role in helping so many Oregon libraries be successful in reaching their mission. I thank you for that on behalf of Oregon State University Libraries.

Finally, you may have retired from the State Library but that doesn't mean you have really retired. I am looking forward to working with you on the Editorial Board of OSU Press.

Kudos, Jim.
Best wishes,

--Faye

Thursday, December 1, 2011

All the best in your retirement...with thanks!

Jim,

When I came to Oregon in 2003, I was told by a highly revered colleague of ours that I was moving to a state with a great state librarian—you. After having the chance to work with you, I couldn’t agree more. Thank you for being a wonderful colleague and library leader not just for Oregon but also through your professional work on the national level with COSLA and ALA.


My admiration for your contributions to advancing libraries of all types is deep and wide. I found your way of supporting libraries and library workers in the state to be always positive, helpful, and useful. All of us could count on you for support. Throughout my tenure at Multnomah County Library, I valued your advice and recommendations on so many different issues. Your approach for using LSTA funds to develop model services at a local level that could then be replicated statewide was brilliant and visionary. Oregon communities all across the state shared the good fortune enabled through your approach.


Congratulations on your retirement. Many people have trouble making that transition, but I know you will plunge into your new life with the same vigor you had for your work as Oregon State Librarian. I look forward to having more leisurely lunches with you in the future, when neither of us has to rush off to a next meeting. May you have many long and happy years ahead of you!


With deep gratitude,


--Molly Raphael
2011-12 President,
American Library Association

(Retired) Director, Multnomah County Library

Oregon Tribes Thank You!

Jim,

I will always remember coming back from a tribal conference in the southwest excited to locate and meet the Oregon State Librarian Jim Scheppke. I had just learned from that recent conference experience that the tribes in the southwest had partnered with their State Librarians to secure a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grant that provided public access computers to all tribal library’s. I thought, well, if they could do that surely we could too!


When I finally met you and asked about this potential partnership I was sadly disappointed to hear that your legislative mandate did not include tribal library’s. WHAT, me must be kidding I thought?!? When in reality what I was thinking was really more colorful and descriptive as I’m sure you know! And as you also now know, I am not one to be dissuaded easily.


Now in looking back over the years since that time we accomplished many things for the Tribes. Together in partnership and on behalf of the tribes we amended House Bill 2674 to recognize Tribal Public Libraries. Hosted a series of meetings which culminated into the Oregon Collaborative Conference which ultimately became a model project for the Institute of Museum and Library Services. And then proceeded on to co-host a National Conference for Tribal Archives, Libraries & Museums.


Thank you Jim, for allowing the State Library and your dedicated staff under your leadership to explored the possibilities with the nine Tribes of Oregon! And of course, congratulations on your retirement.


--Malissa Minthorn Winks
Collections & Research Manager
Tam
รกstslikt Cultural Institute
Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Stay in Touch!

Hi Jim;

This letter is late in coming because I simply cannot accept the fact that you are really leaving. It has nothing to do with your successor-great choice with Robert, a personal fave of mine-but it just is not going to be the same library community without you. And therefore, I’ve been in denial. I want to whine, I want to moan, I want to be selfish and keep you here and let you know that I just can’t go on without you. But, not only is it horribly self-centered, it wouldn’t do any good. So…I’ve accepted our fate and just have a few choice things to say.

Air guitar? Does that mean anything to you? What a mean air guitar you play, Jim Scheppke! Impressive. Our retreats at Silver Falls were made all the more special with your enthusiasm for the ‘after’ work hours and the fun side you revealed during those times. Who knew Mr. Strait Laces could be so zany?

Temporary Tattoos? Your refined and sensual application of temporary tattoos has earned you a spot in tattoo heaven. Mudflap Boy and Girl will always be imprinted in my mind as Jim’s Finest Fundraising Notion. Not only did we have fun, but we raised a few bucks. I hope you continue to send all your wonderful fundraising ideas our way.

Many more words come to mind when I think of you. Creative, steadfast, courageous. Innovative, feisty, smart. Resolute, cranky, intimidating. Committed, supportive, faithful. Fun, funny, witty. Insightful, perceptive, intuitive. All of these words describe you, although you’re really only cranky occasionally-don’t listen to MaryKay! And I’ve gotten over the intimidating part.

Oh and Booming Texas Voice. Love that.

What has meant the most to me is your faith in me and your support. OLA had a total beginner at its helm when I came on board and you were part of the team that nurtured me along, helped me figure out what I was doing, and pointed me in the right direction. I had a ton of fun with an amazing group of people. You were one of my rocks who I appreciated and came to love. In the years since, you’ve helped me out several times and I literally can say I would not be here if it were not for you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. A million times thank you for all of your support and friendship AND all that you’ve done for Oregon and libraries in Oregon. You are a force to reckon with and we’ve been so lucky to have that force behind us, on our side, for all these years. I know that will not just go away. And the seeds you have sown will last many, many years.

God bless you, Jim, in your retirement and always.

In gratitude, Mo

PS You’ll always be a Past President and a part of PPRT so we haven’t lost you completely. Hurrah!!



Maureen Cole  
Library Director
Oregon City Public Library

For Jim

I was so in awe of Jim Scheppke when I became Director of the Seaside Library. He would call and say, “This is Jim Scheppke,” and I would say, “Oh my god, it’s the Holy of Holies”. Once, I referred to him as Our Lord of the Library, but I was discouraged from that heretical folly quite quickly. He overlooked my idiocy with grace (although I am quite sure he hated to phone me).

Here’s the thing about Jim. He is always nice, and trust me, that’s big. He was nice to me at least, despite the fact I don’t have a library degree and failed twice at forming a district. Twice! Once was bad enough, but twice! Any State Librarian would have sent me to Library Loser  Purgatory or put me on some sort of secret list of Those Who Don’t Deserve ****.  But, Jim never did that. He was always kind and helpful. Not only was he still nice to me, but he graciously agreed to speak at the opening of our new library in 2008. His leadership and mentoring is invaluable to me. I still refer to him as the Holy of Holies whenever he calls, but come to think of it, that’s probably why he hasn’t called in years.

Jim Scheppke rocks!

--  Reita Fackerell  
Library Director, Seaside Public Library

Have a wonderful time!

Jim,
A fellow San Antonian, and fellow alum from UT Library School! I wish I
had known before. It has been an honor and a pleasure working with you
over the last five years. I wish you a wonderfully relaxing and
rejuvenating retirement! Regards, Anna Stavinoha

Great Advice from Jim

I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know Jim over the past few years.  Oregon has been so lucky to have such a dedicated and hardworking State Librarian.  Three simple words can sum up my undying appreciation for Jim: Ready to Read!  Thanks for supporting the children of Oregon!!

On a personal note, as I prepare to enter the exciting (and scary) world of parenting, I’m reminded of some great advice Jim once shared with me (which I believe he picked up during his entry into parenthood):

If you want to be a great father, follow this one simple rule: Take your kids to the Enchanted Forest at least once a year.

Best wishes!!

Rick Samuelson, Youth Services Librarian
Washington County Cooperative Library Services



Amazing journey!

I sure wish that Jim had been a so-so State Librarian – it would be so much easier to write a per forma "thank you" for his retirement blog.  But, unfortunately, Jim has done so much in his three decades of service that we are all challenged to express our heart-felt appreciation.
It would be easy to make lists of his accomplishments – all the buildings that were constructed with his advice and encouragement – all the districts that were formed with his unbridled support – all the consortiums that were formed – the lists go on ad infinitum.  But even the most exhaustive of lists would fail to capture the man.
Over the years I have been furious with Jim at times – he hasn't been afraid to lead and to break a few eggs to make an omelet.  I've seen him more than once march Sherman-like to the sea.  He could irritate, frustrate, push and pull.  But even when, to use a southern expression, he made you mad enough to spit, you still liked the guy.  How on earth did he do that?
That was the secret of his success.   Even when there was disagreement, we always knew that Jim was working hard for the best interest of Oregon libraries.  It was never personal – it was always about libraries, it was always about the end user.  And when there was a disagreement, or when Jim was doing his best border collie imitation (and we were the sheep ), he was generally right.  Even when we didn't want to admit it.
Jim, we will miss your collegiality, we will miss your Texas "downhome" personality, but most of all Oregon will miss your relentless drive to sustain and improve library services.
Happy retirement – you have earned it!
Michael Gaston

Happy Retirement

Jim,
As a new library director in a small community, I couldn’t have asked for a more encouraging and supportive State Librarian.  The task before the Lebanon Public Library was huge; we needed a new facility badly and we needed to continue to improve library services to our community.  Your encouragement made all the difference.  With your confidence, it made the task approachable.  The impact of your leadership will be felt across the state of Oregon for decades to come.  I hope you feel a sense of accomplishment and a job well-done.

Congratulations on a well earned retirement.

Most sincerely,

Denice Lee
Library Services Manager
Lebanon Public Library

Good luck Jim!

Jim, it was a pleasure working with you.  Thanks for all you’ve done for the library community.  Enjoy your retirement!

Jessie

Jessica Hopkins
Administrative Services Department
Hillcrest Youth Correctional Facility