Meet Volunteer Dave Dittbenner
Dave Dittbenner, a volunteer at the Greeter Desk, the Friends Book Sale, and Light a Spark, answers a few questions about his library experience.
What is your library story?
”I’ve been visiting libraries since I was young. My mother would take me or drop me off and I’d pick out a few books to take home and read. She was the one who instilled my love of reading. I enjoy a wide variety of books. I go from fiction to history to mystery to general non-fiction to science to books about music. I almost always have something to read with me.”
What do you enjoy about volunteering?
“I enjoy helping people that enter the library. Usually, it is just to point them in the right direction, but sometimes they are looking for a book recommendation or are just coming in to see the library. I’ll point out the high points of the old part of the library such as the original bookshelves in the general fiction section, the terrace, and that this is a Carnegie Library and what that means.”
What do you enjoy most about the library?
“I enjoy talking with the people that come in for whatever reason. Mostly it’s just a ‘Hello’ or ‘Good afternoon,’ but once in a while people will stop and chat for a bit. Also, the staff is wonderful - very helpful, appreciative, and supportive.”
What would you tell someone new to the library to be sure not to miss?
“Definitely the terrace and the art exhibits on the upper level by the Margaret Rivers Room.”
Do you have a favorite story about volunteering?
“I enjoy coincidences and I came across one when talking with one of the visitors. She comes in to read and relax, and in poor weather will walk throughout the building. We got talking and found out we were roughly the same age. Once, as we were talking about music, I found out that we were at the same Rolling Stones concert in Chicago in 1969!”
What are you currently reading or listening to?
“Right now, I’m reading “The Girl in the Red Coat” by Kate Hamer.”
Anything else you would like to add?
“The Stillwater Library is a beautiful library and it is a vibrant library. With all the various programs and events there, it has remained an integral part of the town. I always look forward to my volunteering shift. It’s not that hard, but it is quite rewarding.”