Every book has an ending, which is the case for Janet Marren and her time serving the Prince George Public Library (PGPL).
Today (May 27), she announced her retirement after 13 years with the PGPL, coming to B.C.’s northern capital in 2006 and spending the last six years as its Chief Librarian.
Prior to sitting in the big chair, she worked in other positions such as Community Outreach Librarian, Public Service Coordinator, and Public Service Manager.
“It’s been an honour to lead this incredible organization for the last six years,” said Marren in a news release. “I will sincerely miss working with a fantastic board, talented staff and wonderful community partners. This library helps to make Prince George a great place to live.”
She served as Chief Librarian at the Houston Public Library from 1995 to 2006.
Since arriving at the PGPL, Marren played a key role in several improvements and advancements for the Bob Harkins Branch in Canada Games Plaza, including the completion of the Knowledge Garden, obtaining a library outreach vehicle, and getting approval for a new library entrance from City Council on April 29.
That project is set to begin in the coming weeks.
The library also received several awards under her leadership:
- Two Healthier You Awards
- Two Provincial Merit Awards from the British Columbia Library Association
- Community Impact Award from the Prince George Chamber of Commerce
Chief Librarian, Janet Marren, with the proclamation as presented to PGPL during the Minister of Education, @Rob_Fleming's visit yesterday. pic.twitter.com/QJbwLKMe1H
— Prince George Public Library (@pg_library) October 13, 2017
“Janet has worked closely with the Board and has been instrumental in helping fulfill the library's mission to connect people and ideas, inspiring the community to read, learn and discover,” added PGPL Board Chair Mike Gagel. “On behalf of the Board, I would like to convey how much we will miss Janet and to thank her for her service and for leaving the library in such great shape for her successor.”
Marren’s last day with the PGPL is scheduled for June 28, 2019
After that, she intends to stay in Prince George and spend more time with friends, family, her seven children, and seven grandchildren.
Paul Burry, currently the PGPL’s Manager of Support and Circulation Services, will be the Acting Chief Librarian starting July 2 until a permanent replacement is hired.
