The Jean Connor Library has gone through quite a few transitions through its existence at Wake Robin. It began with a basket containing a few books available for residents to borrow. It has now evolved into a library with over 4,000 volumes, 1,000 DVDs, and audiobooks.
A haven for all book lovers at Wake Robin, the library is named after one of the community’s first residents, Jean Connor. A librarian for 30 years before retiring, Connor was dedicated to the organization and functionality of the space. The library currently operates with about 25 resident volunteers and it’s their dedication that ensures the offerings are always evolving and growing. “It’s a big job with tracking returns, organizing shelves, overlooking donations, and considering new purchases,” says Pat D, the head librarian. “While there is always a constant stream of donations from residents, there are also many new volumes per month added to the collection.”
The most recent transformation occurred during the renovation of the Community Center finishing in 2020. This construction created space for the addition o
f 750-1000 more books as well as enlarged areas for reading tables and comfy chairs. Resident committees such as the Nature Committee and the Racial Justice Committee were granted dedicated shelf space to house special topics. A few shelves of children’s books await grandchildren of residents (these books are not usually expected to return).
Scheduled hours? 7 days a week, 365 days a year! If the Community Center is open, the library is also open for business. Even through Covid, avid readers were offered their favorites by way of curbside pick-up. Gratefully, the doors are once again open for all to enjoy this special place.
