Librarian Ken says ‘thanks, West Seattle, for 25+ amazing years!’

If you’ve visited a Seattle Public Library in the SPL Southwest Region in the past quarter-century, you probably know Ken, who asked us to share this farewell message with you:

Hello, West Seattle Community:

25 years ago, you welcomed me to West Seattle. I was fortunate to serve as a Teen/Adult Services Librarian here at The Seattle Public Library. I was also fortunate enough to serve all 25 years as the SPL liaison to CSIHS. I was able to participate as SPL was able to offer more and more programs for all ages. High Point, thanks to the generosity of volunteers, began to host Homework Help starting in 2011. The program has assisted countless K-12 students in the past 15 years. Youth Drop in Chess, coach Jeremy, has similarly worked with countless West Seattle youth teaching chess in the High Point meeting room. SPL has expanded its outreach services to reach people who don’t normally look to the library as a resource. We have partnered with various community organizations such as High Point SHA, Neighborhood House, SFYC, High Point Community Center, and DNDA, among others, to host SPL programs at their facilities and here at High Point. I watched your families grow up and see your children turn into adults.

My time in the Southwest Region branches:
-2000-2005 Teen Services Librarian at the Southwest branch
-2005-2006 Teen Services Librarian at the Delridge branch
-2006-2010 Teen and Adult Services Librarian at the South Park branch, part of the opening day staff
-2010-2026 Teen and Adult Services Librarian at the High Point branch

Many thanks and all the best to each of you,
Ken

The last day of work for Ken (who asked to be identified by first name only) will be Monday, July 6.

11 Replies to "Librarian Ken says 'thanks, West Seattle, for 25+ amazing years!'"

  • Beanie June 28, 2026 (2:40 pm)

    Aw congrats Ken! I used to volunteer with Homework Help at High Point and Ken was always so great to work with. Happy retirement! 

  • wshs62 June 28, 2026 (2:55 pm)

    Librarians provide remarkable services to all of us.  They have answered so many of my questions, brought smiles with their clever displays of jokes and riddles, and pointed me to some wonderful authors I never would have found on my own.  Congratulations, Ken, and thanks to all the librarians who do so much for us.  

  • Third place June 28, 2026 (4:06 pm)

    Great respect for Ken and his service to our community.  The High Point Library is great because of librarians like Ken kindly helping all. Thank you.

  • Carol June 28, 2026 (4:34 pm)

    An honor to know Ken through homework help. Always ready for the many kids that came in.  Congratulations Ken!

  • SPL fan June 28, 2026 (5:55 pm)

    Congratulations, Ken, and thank you for your selfless service and ever welcoming and kind demeanor. Echoing the other commenters regarding the importance of librarians like Ken. May Seattle never take this indispensable resource for granted.

  • Thanks June 29, 2026 (2:33 am)

    Thank you Ken! My kids grew up seeing you as their friendly librarian. Congratulations!

  • Amy June 29, 2026 (7:00 am)

    Well deserved congratulations to Ken. His work for SPL and especially Homework Help make our community so much richer.

  • Gina June 29, 2026 (9:21 am)

    Congrats to the best Halloween jester CEN BRS ever had!

  • KayK June 29, 2026 (9:25 am)

    Congratulations Ken on your amazing work! Welcome to retirement land!

  • 22blades June 29, 2026 (9:32 am)

    Congrats to your time at our Libraries & thank you so much for being part of the “glue” of our neighborhood!

  • HP Community Member June 29, 2026 (10:41 am)

    Thank you for everything you’ve done for our community, Ken! You are treasured and will be missed. Best of luck in your next steps!

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