Jefferson County Public Library volunteer Marla has two very distinct roles at JCPL.
Marla started her volunteer journey assisting with Programming at the site of the new Deer Creek Library and later added an additional volunteer day supporting Operations at the Columbine Library.
"One role is working closely with people, and the other isn't — but Operations is good for getting my mind sharper," Marla says. "In both aspects, I just really enjoy getting out of myself and not being stuck in my own head. It's fun and rewarding!"
And it keeps Marla going.
"There's so much to learn — all the sections and the way things are catalogued," she continues. "I like working in the children's section, too — the little kids are hilarious! Some of the titles of the books in there I just want to write down because they are so funny."
Deer Creek Manager Rene prizes Marla's memory and ability to build rapport quickly with JCPL patrons.
"Marla makes every effort to get to know the names of the children who attend Story Time, and she remembers their names when they return!" Rene says, admitting: "Often, she remembers names better than I do."
"She also participates during the Story Time songs or finger plays," Rene continues, "providing an example for the kids and parents to follow."
"Having somewhere to go where I have a purpose and I can help others is my favorite part of volunteering," Marla explains.
Marla is no stranger to helping others feel safe and comfortable. Her husband was a dentist, and she worked alongside him for 30 years as a dental assistant.
"When people are coming in and having teeth extracted, it feels so good to sit and chat with them to take their mind off what's about to happen," Marla says. "It's a great way to help people relax."
That spirit continued when Marla started volunteering at St. Anthony Hospital's front desk. There, she met one of her closest friends when she found out they had a similar sense of humor and delighted in making visitors to the hospital laugh. A trait she got from her mother.
"My mom is the most positive, happy person you'll ever meet, and it really rubbed off on us," Marla explains. "I have two brothers and a sister and three step-kids. We all just have happy, good lives."
Marla recently moved to Littleton after making Evergreen her home for almost 50 years. She still returns to the mountains to hike, but she now appreciates living 10 minutes from Target.
"I love to organize stuff, and I'll shop for anything," she says with a laugh.
"I'm also learning Spanish," Marla adds. "I started 25 years ago, and I'm still learning! It's one of the most fun things I've ever done. I have a niece and nephew from Colombia."
Marla also loves going on long walks with her dog and takes Spiritual Living classes at Mile Hi Church.
"The more I do, the happier I am, and then the happier everyone is around me," she explains. "I like to meditate, too — whatever you can do to get by in this world."
In addition to her many other interests, Marla enjoys connecting with others over books.
"I was part of the book club at the Library, but I kind of flaked out," she laughs. "I'm still reading the books, though! I mostly read fiction — I love thrillers and World War 2 biographies especially."
We are so grateful that Marla's love of books and service led her to JCPL! Thank you, Marla!