Helping their patrons to read and learn in Lawrence

The first thing you see when you walk into Peninsula Public Library is a shelf filled with DVDs—a new-age library addition. But the library’s main focus remains books, which soon-to-be retired librarians— Mary Harrow and Priscilla Kesten of Lawrence and Program Coordinator Gloria Pomerantz —have used to form a bond with many of the people who visit the library.

Pomerantz, the longest-working PPL staffer of the three, tallying 50 years, began at the library in her spare time, thinking it would only be a part-time job. Immediately, she was drawn to the educational value of being a librarian, immersing herself in the information books provided her.

“I only wanted to stay a few years, but everyone was so lovely,” Pomerantz said. “And there is a lot of educational value; it’s a way to stimulate my mind.”

Learning wasn’t enough for Pomerantz, so she began working with retired seniors who were looking to learn, too. Their desire to learn was important to her, and she worked to ensure her lectures were informative, educational and fun. Pomerantz applied the knowledge she gained on a recent trip to Europe to her latest lectures. “I learned a lot in Europe, and it’s great to be able to bring that information here,” she said.

Beginning her career as a teacher, Kesten’s career switch began when she started subbing as a librarian. Now after 25 years, the switch was worth it, because it was a way to work with both books and children, she said.

Before becoming a reference librarian in the non-fiction section on the second floor, Kesten spent the majority of her years helping patrons check out books, placing orders and searching for books; she also worked with children. She would read books to them, sing nursery rhymes and run group sessions.

“I love working with children,” Kesten said. “It’s so rewarding to see them happy. I’m not a very good singer, but I loved singing nursery rhymes with them, and it’s those little memories I’ll miss most.”

After discovering her love of books at a young age, Kesten stuck with the obsession and continues to read daily, indulging in all different types of books. “I love all books, but I especially enjoy mystery because of the storytelling,” she said. “During retirement, I’ll be able to read more of them and sleep later.”

Harrow also loved reading at a young age, and credits her love for books to her mother who was a schoolteacher. As a 6-year-old, she would make regular trips to the library, scanning the shelves for the perfect book. “I’m here to serve the community,” Harrow said. “I go out of my way to help people; it’s my job.”

People come into the library daily and stop at the circulation desk in need of a book suggestion. When they approach the desk, immediately, they ask for Harrow, according to her coworkers. She’s loved in the small library community, and is known for providing a great book recommendation.

Kesten, Harrow and Pomerantz sat around a rectangular table in the library break room one floor beneath the many books they’ve checked out, recommended and read. Kesten, sipped coffee, talked to her coworkers about the trip her and Harrow are taking to Greece after they retire. Then, they shared memories of the library.

On Tuesday, the library’s trustees honored the three at the monthly board meeting. “It was nice to see the people learn and read that’s what I’m going to miss the most, the kind, wonderful people,” Pomerantz said.