Richard Patton has spent 30 years working as the Dublin Public Library custodian. This will be his last.
He said some things have changed since he started the job, including an addition to the back of the historic library building in 2000, and some things have stayed the same. And he has met a lot of people in the community.
“I enjoyed working here,” Patton said, “I knew what my job was. I knew how to do it. I didn’t skip corners; I’m responsible.”
Patton was first hired to shovel snow and then transitioned into a janitorial and maintenance role.
“I know a lot of ins and outs of the building,” he said.
An open house in the newer section of the library Friday celebrated Patton’s career, and Library Director Rachael Lovett awarded him a certificate of recognition commemorating his years of hard work.
Lovett said Patton has gotten to know the regulars at the library well.
“He always knows who wants the fireplace on, who wants coffee,” she said.
“Richard is dedicated, reliable, he knows the innards of the library building,” Nancy Cayford, chair of the library trustees, emphasized.
Patton said he planned to hang the award in his bedroom in his Hancock home. He is applying to jobs in Peterborough and is confident he will be a valuable employee wherever he lands.
“I’m not afraid to work,” he said.