Sue Goard grew up in upstate New York, and was brought up by parents with a really strong work ethic. “My dad was born in 1928 and was selling magazines on the street by the time he was five! “ Sue shares “He was a very inspiring man. I went to college in New York, spent my working life in Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts and started spending time up here in the early 2000s.”

“My husband and I finally moved up here from Cambridge full time in 2008. He took a position in a local shipyard, and I retired shortly afterwards so I needed something to fill my time. I have always been a big reader. I love mysteries and the classics. I loved the town and I thought the Library would be a good way to get to know the community and what was going on, while also being of service.” 

“My husband is in Rotary and Sue Kreahling and her husband were there, too. He asked Sue to put in a good word for me here and the rest is history. We have been working together here, often on the same shifts, ever since! I don’t remember exactly when I started, but I do know, it was just about a year prior to the former director's retirement in 2017.”

“I have really enjoyed feeling a sense of accomplishment. To come and spend a few hours and know that you were useful and added some value. Everybody here has their niche that they fill. I feel that I learned most of what I know from Barbara Wilson who was here before me, so I am glad to pass that knowledge on, to0; plus, I think we have the nicest, most interesting patrons!

What I find most encouraging here is all the extracurricular programs, especially those for kids. Getting children involved with the library at a young age is so important. I hope the library will be around for many years to come. I have seen some of the plans for future expansion and I love the idea of a community space. Judging by our patrons, I don’t think libraries are going away anytime soon!”

Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, 4 Oak St., Boothbay Harbor. (207) 633-3112. For more information visit bbhlibrary.org