The Lanier Library invites its members and the public to a reception for Vonda Krahn on Saturday, May 23, from 10 a.m. until noon at the library. Krahn is retiring after 22 years with the library. She began working as a technical processing clerk in 1993, and was promoted to executive director in 1997.

She remembers her early days in the library when things were typed or written by hand. Since then, she said, “We’ve stepped into the computer age.” Among the many changes during her years at the helm was the library’s acquisition of an automated circulation system, although the card catalog still holds its place of honor in the library. “When visitors come through,” Krahn said, “they’re amazed that we still maintain it.”

Although May 23 will be her last day at the library, Krahn will play the role of “Mrs. Doubleday” in the June 28 production of “And So It Began,” to be held at the Tryon Fine Arts Center. The play, updated from an original script from many years ago, will speculate on how the library’s founders from 1890 might feel upon visiting today’s library, which still maintains its historical integrity while embracing modern technology.

Krahn said that her time at the library has been fulfilling.

“I’ve been lucky to work with really good board members while I’ve been here,” she added. She also reminds the public that membership is open to all and that, while only members can check out books, “Anybody can come in to relax.”

–Submitted by Gina Malone