Cape's 'library historian' retiring soon

The ocean breeze of Florida, the adventure of a cruise and the glitzy lights of Las Vegas are all awaiting Phyllis "P.J." Jackson. The Cape Girardeau Public Library administrative assistant won't find them in the pages of a book but in the trips she will embark upon as soon as she retires Feb. 4.

For the past 35 years, she has worked at the library as everything from a fill-in at the reference desk to a fill-in director.

"I've worn quite a few hats while I've been here," Jackson said.

It is the unpredictability of her job that she loves and is the reason she has stayed on for so many years. The late 1980s added computer automation to her library duties. Transferring the library records, card catalogue and check-out procedures to computers has been, she said, her hands-down favorite part of the job.

The experience she has gathered over the years is priceless and has earned her the title of "library historian" from the staff.

"We are never going to be able to replace her memory -- the historical knowledge that she has," library director Betty Martin said. "We rely on her to know the history of what's gone on."

Throughout the day Jackson is bombarded with requests from staff. They want to know where something is, or if they can have more of a certain material ordered. For years she has had to rush through her morning coffee and newspaper because as book and record keeper, Jackson finds herself in the center of library business. Although she is looking forward to a relaxing cup of coffee and slow read, she is going to miss the staff and the feeling of being needed.

"Of course I might come in and visit them," she said.

Martin is thankful that Jackson will be staying just a phone call away in Cape Girardeau because she is aware that the wealth of Jackson's knowledge of library operations are not on paper.

"She's been doing her job for so long that I'm sure there are things only in her head," Martin said. "Whoever takes her place will have to take good notes."

The library is holding a farewell party for Jackson at 2 p.m. Jan. 30.

cpierce@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 127