Fort Scott Public Library Recognized as the Library of Excellence

Loretta George

1 year ago

Lisa Walther is retiring from her position at the Fort Scott Public Library tomorrow, Oct. 31, after over 27 years as director.

Walther said through the years, the changes she has seen include joining SEKnFind ( a consortium of Southeast Kansas libraries administered by SEKLS which shares a single automated system) multiple library remodeling projects, and the beginning of ebooks availability.

An ebook is a book in electronic form that can be read on a computer or handheld device rather than in print, according to Oxford Languages.

Walther said the library board is beginning the process of advertising for her replacement.

Library of Excellence Award

On Oct. 24 the Fort Scott Public Library received the Library of
Excellence award from the Southeast Kansas Library System in a ceremony at the library.

“The library received an award, a check for $1,000, and a traveling plaque which we can display in the library until another Southeast Kansas Library System library wins the Library of Excellence Award,” Valetta Cannon, assistant library director said. “The last and only other one was awarded to Savonburg Public Library in 2018.”

“The Fort Scott Public Library earned this through their tireless
efforts to create community partnerships, renovate their space, and bring creative and innovative programs specific to their
community,” according to the announcement here https://drive.google.com/file/d/14t9bXuXpaUy3ok77LTlxMASLWVph4WqM/view?pli=1.

“Several programs showcase this work and their partnerships with local businesses, including Girls Who Code, 500
books before middle school, 100 books before
graduation, and Walk Into Books, Bourbon County.”

“Both their community outreach initiatives and the library’s dedication to eliminating barriers to services demonstrate
their dedication to the community and earned them this Excellence Award.”

Lisa Walther, Director of Fort Scott Public Library, left, is pictured with Sharon Moreland, Director of the Southeast Kansas Library System, and Valetta Cannon, assistant Fort Scott Library Director. Submitted photo.

According to a press release from Fort Scott Public Library, a patron, Ashley Morris, said, “The real strength of this library is its involvement in the local community. They have been indispensable in our community, particularly in their ability to safely foster connections and offer essential resources during and after the pandemic.”