LAC LA BICHE - After 16 years at the Stuart MacPherson Public Library, Lac La Biche’s Joanne Wicker is about to begin a new chapter in her life.
On June 13, Wicker’s many years of work and dedication as a children’s programmer will be recognized during a retirement party that is set to take place at the Stuart MacPherson Public Library from 3-7 p.m.
Wicker feels good not only about her retirement, but also this party being held for her, stating that she is looking forward to visiting with those who stop by to say hello.
“I am excited to celebrate with our community what has been accomplished for young families with preschoolers in our communities in the last 16 years,” she told Lakeland This Week.
For Wicker, looking back over the years, one of the most enjoyable aspects of the job has been collaborating with community partners, to, as she puts it “dream up” programs for children from birth to age five that would most effectively meet the needs of families in the community. Furthermore, she added, building relationships with families and kids was very fulfilling.
She also appreciated the support that came from co-workers, the library board, partner organizations, as well as the families that came and participated in the programs.
“I enjoyed the creativity of the job,” she said. “I will miss the weekly interactions and relationships with participants and coworkers.”
Prior to taking on her role as the children’s programmer of the local library in 2008, Wicker had gained a considerable amount of life experience both through other positions as well as planning programs for the summer camp where she worked as a youth. She met her husband, Rob – who recently retired as principal of Vera M. Welsh Elementary School after three decades of teaching – on a music, puppetry, and drama team that travelled for one year doing programs for various camps, churches and schools.
Furthermore, raising four children of her own, as well as spending time with friends and her multiple nieces and nephews had prepared her well for the job of designing programs for children.
“My life journey prepared me for this type of work,” she said. “I have always had an interest in music, arts and crafts, and children’s literature and over my lifetime I have continued to take training and education to expand my knowledge and skills.”
Bee-ing retired
Following her retirement, Wicker and her husband plan to continue running their apiary, Christy Creek Honey, a bee and honey farm. Lessons and teaching will continue to be part of their retired lives, as they will offer educational tours about honey production and bee-farming. The couple also plans to enjoy the freedom to make their own schedules that she says will allow them to travel and visit their children.
What will people remember most about Wicker from her days as a familiar face at the local library working with children and families?
“Live music at Rhyme Time with Poppa Paul, or other musicians,” she said with a grin.