New librarian takes helm

DECATUR — As the new librarian at the Iva Jane Peek Library in Decatur, Karen Jones hopes to instill a love of reading in young library patrons.

Jones, who retired from a career in banking, began serving as librarian on May 2.

Reading and books have always been a priority for Jones and her family. She has always loved books and often volunteered for reading time at her daughter’s school library.

“Reading has always been a big deal in our family,” she said.

She hopes to instill that value in the young people who visit Decatur’s library.

“We are very happy to have Karen Jones,” said mayor Charles Linam, “I would like to invite everyone to come down and meet her.”

Jones worked at Arvest Bank since 1983 and as a loan assistant at the Gravette branch for the past five years.

After her retirement, Jones spent a few months traveling in New Mexico with her husband Virgil before the couple settled down at their home in Gravette.In her spare time, Jones enjoys making crafts such as necklaces and jewelry and has taken an interest in leather work.

With Jones at the helm, the library will now be open longer hours; from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday in addition to 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday. The new extended hours have been very popular, according to Janelle Cox, who served as interim librarian until Jones was hired. More than 15 people visited the library last Friday, she said.

“Karen has also done a wonderful job of organizing the shelves,” Cox said.

In addition to a large selection of books, the Iva Jane Peek Library offers a number of programs, including computer and Internet access for patrons, a summer reading program for children, a seniors group, and fishing poles provided by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission which can be checked out like books.

Library memberships are $3 for individuals, and $5 for families, per year. For more information, call 752- READ (7323).