By Laura Laspee, Branch Manager, Panama City Beach Public Library
Neil Gaiman writes, “Libraries are our friends.” This is where my story begins. I grew up spending every Saturday at the local public library solving mysteries with Nancy Drew, spinning delicate webs with Charlotte, and imagining winning a golden ticket with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. These characters were my friends and I am happy to have these memories now that I am managing the Panama City Beach Public Library.
Getting here was a story in itself and one that has as many twists and turns as any great mystery. I am originally from Pennsylvania and after the 2007 recession found myself without a job. The local library was looking for a part time Library Clerk and I applied. I worked part time until a full time position became available. I climbed my way up the ladder to Assistant Director before becoming the Library Director. I worked full time and returned to school to obtain my MLIS degree.
Fast forward to 2017, when I decided to broaden my horizons and relocate to Florida to be closer to my family. I, like Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, won the golden ticket when I was chosen to be the manager of the Panama City Beach Public Library, part of the Northwest Regional Library System. The library system services residents in Bay, Gulf, and Liberty counties and recently acquired a mobile library which brings library services to at risk and underserved communities.
The library’s vision is “to build a community where all residents reach their full potential” and I am so happy to be able to share my love of books with this community. My favorite part of being a librarian on Panama City Beach is that patrons and friends become more like family all within the walls of the library.
All you need to get your own library card is a photo ID and proof of residency. It is free to residents of Bay, Gulf, and Liberty counties and a card is valid at any library in the system. Non- resident cards can be purchased for $15.00 a year. Patrons can check out books, DVDs, and audiobooks. There are other cool things to check out too. How about ukuleles or cake pans? In the mood to build a puzzle? The library has those too.
During this time with Covid restrictions the library has temporarily suspended in-person classes, however, check out the online calendar for all of the virtual programming being offered at www.nwrls.com.
Stop by and say “hi” to the friendly staff here at the Panama City Beach Public Library. You’ll feel like family in no time!
