Something exciting has been happening inside the Humane Society Thrift Shop, while outside, parking has become an obvious problem.

A changing of the guard occurred last June at the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, the agency that sponsors the thrift store.

Long-time board president and stalwart store manager Loraine Nickerson stepped quietly into the position of president emeritus. New board members picked up Nickerson’s baton.

They and shelter staff have reorganized the old Creature Comforts Thrift Shop at 153 Townsend Avenue, Boothbay Harbor, into a surprisingly vibrant 21st century business.

Staff members Carrie Koskela and Barry Hustins happened to have ideal credentials from earlier work experiences. Using their background in retail shop management and skill with merchandising, product flow and visual displays, they have transformed this grand old thrift store.

They were fortunate to begin their “fun adventure” with a generous supply of donated goods and a loyal cadre of volunteer assistants.

But what is so attention getting about this new management team is the positive attitude and atmosphere that Koskela and Hustins have infused throughout the “new” store.

Daily, they tap into their customers’ insights, and then have fun experimenting with ways to market a dynamic stream of still appealing personal artifacts.

Their unabashed spirit and focus on welcoming and assisting visitors has clearly been a boon for curious customers.

It also bodes well for the Lincoln County Animal Shelter and its mission.