Jim's Retirement

A few years ago I had the great privilege of serving as Chairperson of the Oregon State Library Board of Trustees. This meant that once in a while Jim would call me with an issue about which he needed to inform the Chair and maybe ask for some input or direction. I remember thinking, more than once during these calls, "There is something seriously twisted in a world where Jim Scheppke is asking Doug Henrichs for advice. About anything."

When it comes to listing Jim's many successes, as have been done in these messages, I can only nod and say, "Yes. Those and many more." But here is what I am just as much impressed with: Jim's failures, disappointments and opposition. Or, more accurately, his handling of them. Make no mistake, he has taken his lumps. Not every new program or library district or tax measure he pushed, succeeded. And for all the fans he has, he also has some detractors. Ignorant, posturing politicians. Disgruntled staff (and even some staff that I thought were gruntled.) A goofy board member. Or two…. And here is what he does: He listens. Steps back. Takes a breath. Considers. And reconsiders. Adjusts, if needed. And moves ahead. For me, this is one of the most impressive things about Jim Scheppke. I intend to be more like him when I grow up.

Here is something else about Jim. A life spent in curiosity has resulted in somebody who knows a lot of stuff. (When you put that on the poster, remember I said it.) Books. Literature. Poetry. Libraries, past, present and future. Yes. But also, Music. Technology. Cars. People. Sports. Architecture. History. Food. You name it. And for all he knows, he will be interested in what you know. And he's funny, to boot. If you can't have an interesting conversation with Jim Scheppke then give it up.

Finally, I will, with great pleasure and sincerity, say what I have heard him say about others, "He's a really good guy."

Thanks for everything, Jim.

Great Regards,

Doug Henrichs