The Wedsworth Memorial Library and the Town of Cascade are proud to announce that in memory of Jackie Strandell and her years of dedication to Wedsworth Memorial Library, the new addition is officially named the Jackie Strandell Addition. Two plaques were installed with ‘Jackie Strandell Addition’ and ‘Dedicated to Jackie’s years of service 1978 – 2012’ on Tuesday July 5, 2022.
Jackie Strandell passed away on March 8, 2022. She 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.
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.
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 of 2015 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 after serving the library for thirty-three years.
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.
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 with the “Jackie Strandell Addition’.
Wedsworth Library will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony/open house with the Strandell family and Library Board members associated with Jackie’s term of Director at a future date. Please stay tuned for updates when plans are finalized