Browse archives: 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 | 1996 | 1995

Published on 06/22/1998 All articles from this issue

Longtime librarian begins a 'new chapter' in life

printer friendly version

By Scott Fernqvist

Town Crier Editorial Intern

Catharine Fouts is no stranger to libraries and she is also no stranger to the area.

Ever since her first job in 1979 as a reference librarian in Atlanta, Fouts has been working among the books and the "shhhhs" of a library.

"It's a place where you can go to find out what you want to know, not something 'prescribed by the curriculum,'" Fouts said, describing why she has a passion for libraries.

Fouts, who follows longtime Los Altos head librarian, Carol Tefft, began her new job on June 8.

This San Jose resident has been working within the Santa Clara County Library system since 1979. Before Los Altos, she was head librarian at the Morgan Hill Public Library.

There are many notable differences between the Morgan Hill and Los Altos libraries, Fouts said.

"Morgan Hill is one of the fastest growing communities in the Bay Area, and consequently there are some 'growing pains' felt in the library. The work there was extremely challenging, trying to keep up with the community's demands ... Here in Los Altos I have found a mature community, one that has a sense of what public libraries can do and with high expectations as well," Fouts said.

Fouts said she is pleased with the Los Altos Library and its status quo for the time being.

"I think the facility, after the expansion five years ago, is a beautiful facility and is currently meeting the needs of the community," she said.

Even though she feels the library's condition is satisfactory, she looks for practical ways to improve the facility. Fouts' goal for the time being is to make sure that the "best possible service" is being offered, she said

This newly-hired librarian has only been on the job for three weeks but has already made an impact on her co-workers.

"She makes a real effort to get to know each one of us and always has a neat and cheery appearance," said Linda Curtis, a Los Altos Library clerk.

Carol Tefft doesn't have any regrets about her decision to leave her job as head librarian after 35 years. "I absolutely loved what I was doing, but I was glad to pass it (the job) on to someone else whom I'm confident will do a really great job," Tefft said.

When Fouts was asked if she was initially nervous to fill the shoes of ex-librarian Tefft, she said, "No, I wouldn't say nervous. Everyone is unique, and they bring different strengths to the job. I am just looking forward to having the same positive experience she (Tefft) had."

Fouts has had previous experience working in the Los Altos Library, filling in for Tefft as head librarian on a temporary basis during the spring of 1989.

What Fouts would like the community to know is that she appreciates hearing from people about how their needs can be better met.

"I think there is something for everyone in the library. If there is anybody who doesn't use the library, I would like to know why not," Fouts said.