Stiemke joins McGregor Public Library as new children’s librarian
Luana Stiemke has joined the McGregor Public Library as its new children’s librarian. She hopes to incorporate a variety of books, as well as music, into programming. (Photo by Audrey Posten)
By Audrey Posten, Times-Register
Luana Stiemke has joined the McGregor Public Library as its new children’s librarian. Stiemke takes over for Jane Lundquist, who retired last month after 15 years in the position.
The job is a perfect fit for Stiemke, who has a varied background that includes time as a teacher, daycare provider and parks and recreation employee.
“I was an assistant children’s librarian in Sparta, Wis., in the 1990s,” she said, “and it was one of my favorite jobs.”
Stiemke wasn’t able to stay there long because she and her husband moved to Prairie du Chien, “but I always missed doing that,” she reflected. “I liked dealing with the public, working with children and being able to do special projects. It was fun.”
When she saw the opening at the McGregor Library, she jumped at the opportunity.
“This is a different size library, but a lot of the same responsibilities,” she said.
Stiemke has already been brainstorming plans for next year’s summer reading program and ideas for story times once groups can begin meeting again, as well as ways to continue engaging with library patrons through social media during the pandemic. She’s also excited about working with the school more closely and reading new books.
As a child, Stiemke said she gravitated toward books on Helen Keller. Her favorite title, though, was “Five Little Peppers and How They Grew” by Margaret Sidney, which focuses on a family during the Great Depression.
“It really impressed on me about being resourceful and putting people above possessions,” Stiemke said. “That’s something I hope to instill in kids today—to respect and embrace the people in your life.”
As children’s librarian, Stiemke plans to incorporate both older and newer books into programming.
“Sometimes people don’t think books are important if they’re older, but I think relating them to the modern time can give them extra meaning,” she stated. “Every book is different, just like every person is different, and we can enjoy them all.”
She also hopes to include more music, perhaps a theme song for each program.
“I want kids to have a chance to make up their own songs and poems,” shared Stiemke. “There will be something surprising every time.”
Outside her duties as children’s librarian, Stiemke said she looks forward to interacting with other patrons too.
“Every community has its own flavor, which changes how you approach the job,” she said. “The more I learn about the people I’m serving, the more interesting it becomes and the more ideas I can find to meet what they’re looking for.”
