As Dover Public Library Board of Trustees Vice President Julie Warther begins her next adventure, we asked her a few questions about life, libraries, and literacy.
1. What has been the best thing about serving the community as a Trustee at the Dover Public Library?
I felt honored to have had the opportunity to participate in this vibrant part of our community. I loved being part of this winning team of staff, managers, board members and patrons who all work together to make the magic of the Dover Public Library happen! The overwhelming support shown by the community confirms time and again that what we do is important and valued here.
2. How has the Library changed during your time as a Trustee?
I’ve been on the board with two directors, a levy campaign, a remodel of the Children’s Department and later a remodel of the rest of the library. We’ve experienced an incredible growth in programming, making the library a hub in the community for all ages. I’ve watched our Outreach Program blossom and technology explode. The StoryWalk® was created and continues to flourish at Dover City Park. And most recently, we navigated a shut-down due to the Covid-19 pandemic and a re-opening with curbside pickup. And these are just some of the highlights! It’s been an incredible journey!
3.What words of advice would you impart on someone considering applying for the open Trustee seat?
Love the library and this community. Know that you are helping to bring our community together; be an advocate for literacy; open doors for many. The current board has worked together for numerous years and each fills a niche. Bring your own unique talents and be ready to jump in with both feet!
4. What do you like to do in your free time?
My favorite hours are spent with my kids, or reading, writing poetry, hiking at Norma Johnson’s Conservation Center and kayaking the Tuscarawas River.
5. What is your greatest memory of growing up in Dover?
I recognize I had a near-idyllic childhood with a loving family, lots of outside time, and a love of reading. My childhood home was adjacent to what is now the Norma Johnson Conservation Center. I spent hours hiking and fishing there with my parents and brothers. My mom brought me to Storytime at the Dover Public Library when I was younger, then I started reading through the shelves of mysteries in the Children’s Department – The Happy Hollisters, Nancy Drew, Encyclopedia Brown. I grew up as part of the family at Dover First United Methodist Church and attended Dover High School where I remember fondly my days playing alto saxophone with the Marching Tornadoes and performing with the Thespians on the Dover High School stage.
6. One thing about me that people would be surprised to know is…
I am a poetry nerd! I am an editor for an online haiku journal called The Heron’s Nest www.theheronsnest.com and have been instrumental in establishing several haiku path installations, including one at The Inn at Honeyrun in Millersburg.
7. What is your favorite book of all time and why?
You didn’t really expect me to name just one, did you? I have found delight in many books.
The Bible, cozy mysteries, children’s literature like the Harry Potter series, and lots of poetry.
There is however, one particular book that surfaces when this question is asked. Richard Adams’s Watership Down was that one special book for me that still resonates. It was a place of community, albeit through many difficulties; friends helping each other along, each respected for his or her own unique gifts. There was an opening to possibilities and hope in it for me.
8. You are about to begin the next chapter of your life. Can you share what is next for you?
I am moving to Wisconsin with two cats where we will likely be snowed-in often and catch up on stacks of books. I will probably do much of what I did here: be involved in the writing community and the church, find a place to lead a tai chi class and enjoy hiking and biking. As my people are here in Ohio, I will make regular trips back to visit. Don’t be surprised if you run into me at the library!
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Thank you, Julie Warther, for your years of service to the community! We wish you all the best in your next chapter!
If you know someone who has a passion for literacy, the community, and the Dover Public Library, please tell them about our Board of Trustees, currently seeking a new member! Learn more online or call Library Director Jim Gill at 330-343-6123 for more information.