Pat Garrett |
Receiving the NMLA Communitay Achievement award in 2016 |
After a lengthy career as director of Capitan Public Library, Pat Garrett retired as of
December 31, 2018. She reluctantly took on the job in 2000, following the unexpected
death of the director. Having had no experience in running a library, she confesses that
there were a few hills and a lot of valleys the first few years.
One major accomplishment was acquiring the current building that houses the library.
This came about with a large donation from a patron. With the help of community,
staff and patrons the structure was renovated in a few months and the library moved
from a 1000 sq. foot building to the current 2400 sq. foot property.
In 2005-2007, Garrett oversaw a fund raising project that raised the money for a
2400 square foot addition. This addition opened in 2008. She once again credits
the dedication and hard work of staff, patrons and community in the completion of
this endeavor.
“Our library differs from most other public libraries because it is a non-profit and
receives little government funding. We keep our doors open with extensive fund
raising, grants and donations,” says Garrett.
The library is staffed almost entirely by volunteers, which includes Pat Garrett.
“The staff is dedicated to the success of the library and many spend hours over and
above their 4-hour shifts,” Garrett notes.
In 2016, Pat was awarded the esteemed Community Achievement Award by New Mexico
Library Association. This award is given to librarians for outstanding library service or
achievement at the local level.
"My years as director have been rewarding,” says Garrett.
With the help of many unwavering staff, the library has become not only a gem
in this small community but a place where all can come and enjoy reading,
using the public computers, attend a multitude of programs, bring their children to
a safe environment, receive assistance in technology and much more. It is a
community center and a place of information for visitors and tourists.
in this small community but a place where all can come and enjoy reading,
using the public computers, attend a multitude of programs, bring their children to
a safe environment, receive assistance in technology and much more. It is a
community center and a place of information for visitors and tourists.
“The library has been an important part of my life and I know it will continue to
be instrumental to Capitan and Lincoln County," Garrett concludes.