If you have visited the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library periodically over the past three decades, you have probably noticed many changes, including countless new technologies and even a completely renovated library. One presence has remained constant, however: the smiling, friendly face of Head of Circulation Shannon Riggs. This month, after 34 years, that will finally change.

We are very sad to announce that Shannon will be leaving Neuse Regional Libraries on April 14. She has accepted a position down the road at Sheppard Memorial Library in Greenville. I know personally that it will be hard to imagine a Circulation Desk without Shannon there, and that sentiment is shared with many of the other staff and regular staff members at the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library. I can remember Shannon checking out my books when my parents brought me to the Library as a boy, and have worked with her for over 20 years and have seen firsthand how above and beyond she goes to help our library users. She will be missed.

Shannon began working part-time in the Circulation Department at the Kinston-Lenoir County in August 1989, and became a full-time employee in February 1990 as a Library Assistant I. She was promoted to Library Assistant II in November 1991. In 1994, Shannon was promoted to Assistant Head of Circulation. In June 2000, Shannon was promoted to Head of Circulation. She is a member of the Library’s Leadership Team and has been an invaluable asset to our libraries throughout her time here.

“We are going to miss Shannon,” said Melanie Morgan, Director of Libraries. “She has been an integral part of the Neuse Regional Libraries for so long, and we will miss her fun presence and skill in assisting our users. Shannon is an incredible human being and it has been a blessing to work with her. We truly wish her the best on her next adventure.”

“I gave this decision great thought and it was not easy,” said Shannon. “I have come to appreciate my fellow staff members as well as many of the library users I have met in so many different ways. I will miss you all terribly. Thank you all for the support you have given me, as well as to Melanie for being a strong leader who has shared her many talents with me.”

The public is invited to a celebration of Shannon’s many years of service in the Shechter Auditorium of the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library at April 17 at 4:00 p.m. We are grateful to have this opportunity to recognize all of her many contributions to our library and our community. Thank you Shannon!