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 |
Great post Mo. Thanks so much. It's been so much fun to see you evolve from a small college library director to an awesome public library director (question: can former directors of a Christian college library evolve?). You landed in a great place that needs you. Please invite me to the grand opening of your new library. Maybe you can be the first director to retrofit a dam and turn it into a library. Just kidding. I will stay in touch!
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