I was disappointed to read in the latest Jaffrey Town Report the description of the Jaffrey Public Library before Julie Perrin’s arrival as a “book depository.”
I worked at the Jaffrey Public Library for more than 40 years. During that time, we saw yearly increases in both circulation and new patrons, two building renovations and a major library addition which received town-wide support, and the creation of a dedicated children’s department.
There was a robust schedule of programming for all ages, including weekly story times and book clubs for children, summer reading programs which grew each year and adult programs which filled the 50-seat meeting room regularly.
Former Library Director Joan Knight began the collaborative relationship with MilliporeSigma which continues today. We also participated in many statewide initiatives, including Big Read book discussions and a statewide “Mill on Main Street” program exploring the history of Jaffrey’s downtown mill complex.
Perrin should not seek to glorify her accomplishments by dismissing the hard work of the generations of library directors and workers who came before her. The Jaffrey Public Library has never been just a “book depository.”
Marilyn Simons
Jaffrey