Rosanne Pugh retired from the Slatington Public Library in November after 40 years of service.

Pugh attended Kutztown University, getting her bachelor’s in education with a concentration in library science.

Pugh was the library director at the library’s old location at 560 Main St., Slatington. She assisted in the transfer of books from the library’s old location to the present location at 650 Main Street, using 150 adults and children in a “bucket brigade” fashion.

Pugh said, “We now have 36,000 items in our library. It was a lot easier when we just had pen and paper, because when our computer system goes down we are stuck. My duties were about the same as now: shelf new books, check them in, and answer the phone. Library cards now have bar codes and are plastic.”

Pugh said the library is applying for a grant to refurbish the second floor.

“We would like to have meeting rooms up there for organizations to use. I liked the library when it was busier, when there was no digital,” she said.

She plans to move to Lehighton with her younger son and his wife.

“My daughter-in-law is decorating a bedroom for me in beach decor. I will get to just relax and not have to go anywhere. I look forward to the next part of my life with my children, but it is very hard to say goodbye,” she said.

The library board released a statement about Pugh.

“Her deepest commitment, unruffled strength, and calm wisdom have touched thousands of lives. We thank her for her unwavering service and celebrate the legacy she leaves behind.”