I would like to publicly express my appreciation to the Montesano Timberland Library and its awesome staff: Chris, Carol, Nicole and Janiece.

I have always been a fan of the library, finding there a source of knowledge on every topic from A to Z. There is a treasure trove of print material, from books to magazines to newspapers, but there are also computers to connect one with the very latest information. In addition there is a large collection of material meant more for entertainment: books, recorded books, eBooks and movies.

The Montesano Library is part of the Timberland Regional network, so if one wants an item that isn’t part of our local collection it is almost always available from another branch — or even other library systems — and can be sent right here. And it’s free. And convenient. For many of us the Montesano Library is within walking distance.

The library is also a social outlet. Friends of the Library work together to sponsor sales of used books and to host Lunch for the Brains, monthly programs on a broad range of topics. In addition, the library staff present outstanding events for children and teens. These activities bring the community together. Although some of these programs have been on hold this past year, others have been adapted to virtual transmission.

During the pandemic, I have come to rely even more on what I consider my library, and I have received superb service from the staff. Until recently, while the building was closed to the public, curbside checkout was available. All one had to do was log into their website and search for what s/he wanted, then place a request. When the material arrived locally, the patron was notified by phone. Often in the entertainment department, I wasn’t quite sure what I did want. Then, I would call the library and whichever staff member picked up the phone happily put together an assortment of possibilities for me to check out and look through.

I have felt quite isolated in these times of social distancing and I especially miss the social outlets mentioned above. I was on the library’s doorstep the first day they re-opened, and it was so, so, so wonderful to see the staff in person. OK, from a distance, but still! Recently when I went in to pick up some items I’d requested, I saw a poster in the library entry way which spoke to my heart: “The cure for LONELINESS — Your Library — Making authentic connections every day.”

And to think that not all that long ago, there was talk of closing our branch! The Montesano Timberland Library is the very heart of our community and a lifeline to all. I am deeply grateful for the library and to the library staff.

Mary Francis Lewis

Montesano