Kingston honors retiring library director Barbara Thorson; new librarian introduced

The Kingston City Council on Monday read a proclamation recognizing Barbara Thorson for her years of service as director of the Kingston Public Library and presented retirement honors.

Mayor Timothy Neil read the proclamation that thanked Thorson for her stewardship of public funds, programming for children and families, and service to multiple generations. Thorson thanked the council and community, saying, “I just wanted to say that over the years, kids and things, I’ve watched them grow and get married and have children of their own, and now they’re bringing them to the library.”

The council also introduced the library’s new hire. Jessica Hley, recently approved by the library board, stepped to the podium and said, “I don’t have anything prepared, but I just wanted to thank the city and the library board for trusting me with this job. I look forward to working with you for many years to come.”

No formal action beyond the proclamation and introduction was recorded; the council offered thanks and invited Thorson and Hley to join briefly at the dais. The presentation concluded with applause and brief remarks about the library’s community role.