Shelf Talk 52: Employee of the Quarter- Wayne Stevenson

Here at the library, there are a lot of things that take place behind the scenes. One of these being the work of Wayne Stevenson. Stevenson handles yard maintenance and the cleaning of our facilities at the Blytheville Public Library. Each quarter, we like to choose an employee to recognize for their outstanding performance and integrity. Giving credit where credit is due is a simple way for us to appreciate our employees. This quarter, we have chosen to recognize Wayne Stevenson. His dedication and hard work for the past several years are acknowledged and greatly appreciated by the MCLS staff. Stevenson shared with us that the mowing and cleaning services for the library have been handled by his family since 1974. Lena Ellington, the MCLS bookkeeper, noted that Stevenson’s father began their service for the library when it first opened. Stevenson took over his father’s business in 2006 after his father passed away and promised him that he would take care of his mother. One of the jobs he took on included the Blytheville Public Library. Not only does taking care of the library hold meaning to his family, but it also means a lot to him in other ways. Stevenson says he loves to keep the library maintained so the kids in the community have a place to go and spend their time. Children of all ages regularly visit the library, whether it be for programming, gaming, or everyday services. Stevenson’s passion for the library to continue to be a place available to these young people is proof of his selflessness and integrity, further proving how much he deserves this recognition. When asked about Stevenson and his work, employee Lilly McGarrity said, “Wayne takes very good care of the library and grounds. He is very nice and does a wonderful job. I have seen him work on several occasions, he takes his job seriously and he is very dependable.” System Director, Lowell Walters, states, “Mr. Stevenson has had to address really nasty situations along with the normal janitorial duties. Several years ago, some barbarian smeared fecal matter all over the surfaces of the men’s room. Mr Stevenson cleaned it up quickly, thoroughly, and without complaint. This small means of special recognition is quite overdue.” Though Stevenson may not always be seen in the act of some of his responsibilities here at the library, his work does not go unnoticed. Because of him and his efforts, the Blytheville branch stays well taken care of for our patrons. We appreciate Wayne Steveson for his important role within the Mississippi County Library System.