Gem Tartaglia retiring after 20 years of helping library patrons

Katryna Barber

Long time staff member Gem Tartaglia is retiring after 20 years of dedicated service to the La Conner Regional Library. Gem has worked in the library throughout the years and has seen a great deal of change, both in the library and in the community. Though it all, she has been a stable and welcoming face to all who have visited the library. Reflecting on this, Gem says: “Being in the library, working the front desk, I got to know the people in town. I also got to know the books. What a treat! Words, books and patrons. They are so important. I love putting a book or two in a patrons’ hands, matching people with books. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.”

The library is expected to begin construction on a new building in mid-September and Gem remembers how the library has progressed over the years. Gem recalls: “The library – back in the day – had the book nook near the front door. Lots of people came in for used books and to trade magazines. They would laugh and talk. It was not a quiet place. The library was a hub in the community for people to meet. I have always felt lucky and privileged to get to work at the library all those years.”

Library Director Jared Fair says: “I enjoy Gem’s humor and thankfulness. She loves helping people and it shows.”

Foundation Director Susan Macek shares: “We are fortunate to have had such a Gem serving our library for so many years! Her love of books and matching good reads with people, her can-do attitude, spirit of service, accountability, care and concern for others and sense of humor made the library a better place.”

Children’s Specialist, Katryna Barber shares: “Gem is always willing to help.

She picks up loose ends in the library; getting rid of excess, reorganizing, straightening and cleaning up without being told.

She has a wicked wit and great laugh, a perfect contrast to her tidy, disciplined shelving technique.

It has been a pleasure having her on our staff.

It’s obvious she loves books and people reading books and this library.

Due to her long association here she is also a library memory holder – a brain trust.

It’s fine to have a photograph of a former librarian, but it won’t tell a story.

Gem knew many of the people and witnessed events here.

She has a personal connection and stories to tell.

But you have to ask the right question to get her talking.

It’s worth the effort.”

Gem has been passionate about building the large print section. Though officially retired, she was visiting the library the other day, when a woman came in looking for large print books for her 92-year-old mother. Gem went right over and asked her a few questions about reading preferences and then started making suggestions. The woman left, happily loaded with eight or nine books, saying: “This will keep my mom busy for a week!” Gem said quietly, “I just love doing that.”