At the end of June, Tina Ely will retire from the Big Horn County Library System—again.
Tina began her career at the Greybull Library as a volunteer while going to school at Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming. After earning her AAS in Business, she was hired as a library assistant. Six months later, she took over as branch manager after the previous manager’s retirement. Tina served in this position for six years before her first retirement, which lasted four years.
“I was browsing the shelves in Basin when a library board member asked me if I was interested in applying for the Big Horn County Library’s interim director position,” said Tina. “I was hired a couple of weeks later and then asked to become library director five months later.”
After two years as the director, Tina is ready to retire for a second time.
“I am looking forward to being able to travel to see my sister more often, as well as my son and granddaughters who live too far away,” said Tina. “Birding has become my passion in the last few years so having more time to do that is exciting. Just staying home gardening and riding my horse seems very appealing to me right now.”
Tina is most proud of the way the libraries in Big Horn County have become a team that works well together instead of in isolation.
“We have great managers who care about the libraries and want to see them succeed,” said Tina. “”I also feel that I am leaving the Library System well-organized with past problems resolved.”
Tina’s hope is that the Big Horn County Libraries continue on the path they are on and things just keep getting better. She also hopes communities continue to value the library and encourage their financial support.
“I would like to add my appreciation to everyone at the State Library and all of the Directors in Wyoming for your support and help during my time as Director,” said Tina.
Tina’s last day at the Big Horn County Library will be June 30.