To the Editor:

After 10 years, Judith Wines leaves as Altamont’s librarian. This Friday is her last day before assuming her new post at Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Library.

When Judith told me a few weeks ago, my first reaction was a self-serving, “Oh no...You can’t go!” although I quickly recovered and was able to congratulate her on this career advancement.

To which she said, “You know, it’s been 10 years.”

Well, Judith, these have been 10 amazing years, and we will never forget the mark you have left on this community, and how grateful we feel as Altamont residents.

Many have expressed well-deserved accolades over the years for your superior, creative leadership at the library. But we want to tell you how much we will miss your presence in Altamont. 

Aside from being one of the brightest people we know, we will so miss your spirited and unique style, your inspiring way with people, your drive for and modeling of a healthy lifestyle, your warmth and unassuming character. 

We will miss seeing you running around the village at noon, summer or winter, or cycling to work in the mornings, or the attentive welcome you give every time someone walks into the library, or learning of a new interesting activity or event you initiated in your effort to engage all ages.

But mostly, we will simply miss your presence.

Thank you, Judith, for giving us your all, and we wish the very best for you, Soraya, and Kurt.

I wonder if everyone at Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk know how lucky they are.

Kristin and Bob Casey
Altamont