Wedsworth Memorial Library was saddened to learn of the passing of our former Director, Jackie Strandell on March 8, 2022. She served the library for thirty three years and her legacy stands before us in the impressive building at 13 North Front Street.
Jackie entered her library world in September 1978, when she was hired as Substitute Librarian. Four years later, in October 1982 she moved up to assume the role of Library Director.
One of Jackie’s first tasks was to see the Wedsworth Memorial Library through the Montana State Library’s certification process, giving it the status of a fully-fledged. This was a major step which entitled the library to receive state aid and services.
During her tenure Jackie continued to champion efforts to improve library facilities and services. In 1990 she spearheaded efforts for significant remodeling to enlarge and modernize the library. This included improved areas for a children’s Story Hour and for more storage.
As the years passed, Jackie recognized the need for additional room for stacks to house the growing book and media collection, a larger area for computer stations, a dedicated meeting room, an area for patrons to relax and read or study, and yes, air conditioning! For this purpose Jackie dreamed of expanding the library by adding on an addition and remodeling the old space.
To this end, in November 2005 she helped to form the Friends of the Library for the sole purpose of raising the funds necessary to accomplish the above, as well as providing for future needs of the library.
Jackie was a force to be reckoned with. She had her goal and worked hard to achieve it. It was her drive and focus that brought the expansion and remodel to successful fruition. In 2012 the shell and outside of the new addition was completed; and in June Jackie officially cut the ribbon and was the first person to step through the opening from the old to the new. In September of that year Jackie retired.
Inside work on the addition continued as did fund raising efforts by Jackie and the Friends. Three years later, in July 2015, the beautiful new addition was officially opened to the public. Jackie’s forward thinking, and guidance meant the library entered an elite class. The whole project was totally funded with community donations, memorials, and only supplemented by a grant or two. The new library opened with no loans to pay off and very few libraries can lay claim to this fabulous accomplishment.
Jackie loved serving as Library Director, and it wasn’t just a job to her. She enjoyed the people who used the library, her many colleagues on the Library Board, and her associations with other Library Directors across the State. She always had the needs and interest of Wedsworth Memorial Library foremost in her mind and was a well-respected member of the Montana Library Association.
Even after retirement part of her heart remained with the library and she continued to champion its success. Wedsworth Library’s current achievement and growth are due in large part to Jackie’s vision, hard work and love. Her memory will live on.