In August 2025, the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) proudly celebrated an extraordinary milestone: 35 years of service by Keremeos Branch Community Librarian Debra H.
Debra’s journey with the ORL began in 1990 and has spanned remarkable changes in library life, from physical card catalogues and our first book barcodes to digital collections, Makerspaces, and community programming. Through it all, Debra has shared her warmth, creativity, and passion for connecting people with books, ideas, and each other.
We sat down with Debra to look back on her time with the ORL, what’s changed (and what hasn’t), and what makes libraries such special places to work and visit.
What inspired you to join the ORL, and what do you remember about your early days here?
Debra:
From as far back as I can remember, I have always loved books and reading. Growing up in Toronto, my dad and I spent hours in the library across the street from our house. He was a writer and loved to research. Later, when I was raising my four children, we visited libraries in every northern Ontario town we lived in.
When we moved to British Columbia in 1990, I saw a posting for an Assistant Clerk Library position at the Keremeos Branch. I typed my résumé on an old typewriter, brought a children’s book to read aloud for the interview, and was thrilled to be hired. At the time, our branch was in the basement of Victory Hall, small but full of heart. I hosted Story Time on Friday mornings, worked Friday evenings, and eventually added more shifts as the branch grew.
We still had the card catalogue and microfiche then, but shortly after I started, the ORL switched to a computer-based system. Staff spent a full week barcoding every book while wearing “Bar with Me” shirts. Those early years were full of community spirit and creativity.
What are some of the biggest shifts you have witnessed, and what has stayed the same?
Debra:
Libraries have transformed in amazing ways. Programming has expanded for every age group, and we now offer hands-on materials like Library of Things kits alongside books, magazines, and digital resources. Who could have imagined apps like Libby or Flipster back in the 1990s?
That said, some things never change. People still love books in print, and helping patrons find just the right one remains at the heart of what we do. Libraries have also become true community hubs. We offer workshops, book clubs, and welcoming spaces for connection and learning.
In the early days, we did not have to fix printers or help with tablets. Now, supporting technology is a big part of the job. But our mission hasn’t changed: to provide access, knowledge, and kindness in an inclusive space for everyone.
What part of your work has brought you the most joy over the years?
Debra:
Serving customers. Helping someone find what they need or answering a question feels incredibly rewarding. I’ve also loved planning children’s programs and doing community outreach. Working alongside such a supportive team of librarians and staff has been wonderful, and many of those relationships have become lifelong friendships.
Do you have a favourite memory or program moment that stands out?
Debra:
So many! Moving from our little basement space in Victory Hall to a larger, central branch on Main Street in 1998 was unforgettable. The local high school built our wooden shelves, and the community came together to help assemble everything. It was such a shared celebration.
One moment that always stays with me is from a Summer Reading Club. A child played the violin while I read Mole Music by David McPhail, a story about how music can change the world. It was a moving experience, seeing story and sound come together.
But maybe the best memories are hearing patrons say how much the library means to them. Knowing the library has made a difference in someone’s life is deeply fulfilling.
What do you think makes the ORL such a special place to work, and for patrons to visit?
Debra:
Being part of a regional system is a huge advantage. From headquarters to our smallest branches, everyone works toward the same goal: providing the best possible service to our communities. Each branch is unique, but we are united by our partnerships, our love of books, and our commitment to learning.
If you could give advice to someone just starting their career in libraries, what would you share?
Debra:
Make great customer service your top priority. Be kind, curious, and willing to learn. Get to know your library’s website and resources, stay up to date on trends, and never stop learning.
Be passionate about what you do, because this work matters. You represent your library and your community. Take pride in that. And keep a good sense of humour, because there’s no other job quite like it.
Thank you, Debra
The ORL extends heartfelt thanks to Debra for 35 years of dedication, creativity, and community. We’re grateful for everything she has done, and continues to do, to make the ORL a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and inspired.
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