By Elizabeth Wastell,
Gazette Staff
This is the first article in a series featuring our local librarians. Our first story is about Sara Beahler.
Beahler is 56 years old and was born in Blue Earth, MN, but raised in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
“I have a degree in Early Childhood Education from Iowa State University,” she said. “I have raised 3 children with my husband, Blake. We moved to the Garretson area in 2017 from northwest Iowa and love living on an acreage where we enjoy gardening, our dogs, and chickens.”
“I have worked for Siouxland Libraries for over 8 years, but just recently transferred to the east side of the county which includes Garretson! I live in the country halfway between Garretson and Baltic, so I am thrilled to be able to work in the community I call home. Hopefully, I will meet you at the library this spring.”
Beahler is very passionate about books and about reading, which would make a job as a librarian ideal.
“My favorite hobby is reading!” she exclaimed. “I enjoy all sorts of books and my favorite author is Ann Patchett. I am usually reading a physical book as well as listening to a second book while I commute. I have belonged to many book clubs over the years and love to talk about and recommend books.”
She’s not only good at reading books, she’s really good at finding them.
“Every day at the library is different,” she said. “It is fun to find the perfect book for a customer, whether they have read just about everything or are just getting started with exploring the library.”
Being an early childhood educator, Beahler is very professionally satisfied during story-time and working with young readers.
“I have used my education to enhance my love and appreciation for picture books,” she said. “I am a storyteller in the library and taught preschool for many years before becoming a library employee. I hope to begin leading the Garretson story-time in June. My storytimes are filled with books, silly songs, lots of jumping and dancing and sometimes even an art project. Reading to small children is the best way to get them ready for school and life in general. The library has so many picture books to enjoy for their wide range of stories as well as their amazing artwork.”
As was previously stated, Beahler’s profile is only the first of the articles we will be featuring in the Garretson Gazette about our local staff of librarians. Watch for more upcoming articles in the following weeks.
