Next time you visit the Stanley Tubbs Memorial Library in Sallisaw or the Muldrow Public Library, you’ll appreciate even more what Bethia Owens did for the Eastern Oklahoma Library System during the past 42 years when you’re lost in the stacks trying to decipher the Dewey Decimal System.
But Owens, the shared branch manager for Sequoyah County’s two public libraries, won’t be around to help you, because she’s retired.
Owens was honored at two receptions — Sunday at the Muldrow library and Tuesday at the Sallisaw library — as she closed out 42 years in Muldrow along with the past 22 years in Sallisaw.
During her years of service to the community, Owens has not only provided patrons with many years of reading material, but she also classes in a variety of subjects, from cooking to genealogy, as well as years of children’s programming and summer activities. Owens and the libraries have been a valuable community partner for the public schools, offering teen activities, art classes, a variety of physical exercises, a fun walk in the park to read a book as you move along, and spotlighting talented area youth in music and dance.
Owens also had a golden hand at securing grants to provide additional services for the library, and so many other things too numerous to mention that have benefited the community.
As part of the month-long celebration that concluded Tuesday, Muldrow recently issued a proclamation to honor Owens. This tribute is a wonderful mark of respect and distinction for a longtime servant of both Sallisaw and Muldrow.
The proclamation cites Owens for: Demonstrating unwavering dedication and commitment to the community; Consistently exemplifying professionalism and integrity; Playing a vital role in the delivery of essential services; Fostering a strong sense of community; Significantly impacting the well-being and growth of the community; Leaving a lasting and positive legacy on the town of Muldrow; and Being a valued colleague and a true inspiration to all who have had the privilege of working alongside her.
