Even though we’re shut down, everyone at AAPLD sends a big shout-out to Virginia Donohue, who retired from her position as Adult Programming and Community Outreach Librarian on April 1.
Virginia joined the Algonquin Area Public Library District twenty three years ago, as the Young Adult Librarian. Previously, she had served as a trustee on the AAPLD Board, and also worked as an aide in the media center at H.D. Jacobs High School. Her love for teens and books was a great asset in her new role.
When the new Main Library opened on Harnish Road in 2001, Virginia moved too. Before long, she was working with genealogy, and in 2011, she took on responsibility for adult programming and community outreach. Her enthusiasm, creativity and energy expanded AAPLDs programming to include lectures on a variety of history topics, how-to workshops on everything from writing a novel to organizing your closet, plus special events such a trip to Chicago’s Hamilton exhibit, a teen talent showcase, and trivia nights.
Her involvement extended beyond the library doors. A familiar face at events such as the Algonquin and Lake In The Hills annual parades, Virginia was a member of the library cart drill team. At this year’s Club 2600 Murder Mystery night, she did a star turn as flapper and murder suspect, Haddie Drinx. From participating in the Library Loop 5K, to dressing as a pirate, 1980s workout queen, or answering questions at a Friends of the Library information booth, Virginia loved being involved in the community.
Check out a few of Virginia’s career highlights here
Virginia says what she’ll miss most about working at AAPLD are the people. “My colleagues, my teens, my program presenters, all the patrons, the Library Friends, my contacts from the villages, to police, to schools, to businesses and being able to help, volunteer and contribute to this community!”
She plans to continue contributing to the community through her involvement in the Rotary Club of Algonquin, the D300 Foundation for Educational Excellence, and the Environment Defenders of McHenry County. She’s also applied for an appointment to the Algonquin Historic Commission.
She looks forward to having fun with her husband Chuck, who retired from AAPLD’s Eastgate Branch in March. The couple enjoys biking, boating, sledding and road trips to visit their children, grandchildren and mothers.
All the best to Virginia and Chuck, and thanks!