After 13 years with the Prince George Public Library, chief librarian Janet Marren has announced her retirement.
Her last day will be on June 28.
Marren has held the role since 2013. Prior to that, her positions at PGPL have included community outreach librarian, public service coordinator and public service manager.
She also served as chief librarian at the Houston Public Library from 1995-2006.
"It's been an honour to lead this incredible organization for the last six years. 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," Marren said.
Marren plans to continue to reside in Prince George where she'll spend more time with her friends and family, including seven children and seven grandchildren.
Milestones under Marren's direction include completing the Knowledge Garden at Bob Harkins Branch, successfully fundraising for a library outreach vehicle, completing the digitization of more than 100 years of the Prince George Citizen, and increasing and diversifying its program and collection offerings.
Marren also has been a vocal advocate for the library entrance project, which received final approval at a recent city council meeting. The project is set to break ground in the coming weeks and will result in a safe and accessible entrance for all library users.
Under her leadership, PGPL received several accolades, including two Healthier You Awards, two provincial merit awards from the British Columbia Library Association, and most recently the Community Impact Award from the Chamber of Commerce Business Impact Awards.
Her community work includes involvement with the Prince George Council of Seniors, Success by Six Council of Partners, Prince George Literacy Advisory Committee, Advisory Committee on Enhancing Prince George, Local Immigration Partnership Council and the City of Prince George's collective impact working group.
She also chairs the librarian advisory group for the North Central Library Federation.
"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," said 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."
The board has appointed Paul Burry, manager of support and circulation Services, as the acting chief librarian, effective July 2. Burry has been with the PGPL since 2011 and will remain in the acting role until the board appoints a permanent replacement.
