Meet Goldyphyllis, one of the most beloved patrons at the Walker Branch. She’s also the oldest regular visitor. Goldyphyllis turned 100 on October 16, 2024. She said she still feels like she’s 40!
Goldyphyllis visits the Walker Branch at least once a week with her longtime friend, Caroll. The two, nicknamed the Golden Girls, met more than four decades ago through a mutual work friend. With no living relatives, Goldyphyllis’s friends have become her family. She doesn’t get out too much these days, but she loves her regular library visits and coffee dates at McDonalds.
Goldyphyllis shows up at the library in her brightly colored tops, on the hunt for books in her favorite genre — mysteries. Her favorite authors are Michael Connelly and Robert Crais. She said reading sometimes makes her fall asleep, but she still manages to read about a book a week.
“I don’t care how many books you have read, you can come to the library and find one that you haven’t,” Goldyphyllis said. The thing she loves the most about the library are the friendly, warm librarians who make her feel special. They feel the same way about her!
Barb Schantz, an Assistant Branch Librarian at the Walker Branch, enjoys her conversations with Goldyphyllis and appreciates that she is a life-long learner.
“It is always a nice flow of conversation, information sharing and sometimes a nice amount of life wisdom with a good-natured sense of humor,” said Barb. “Goldyphyllis really is a gem and has touched all of us over the years. She inspires us to stay current and relevant — she’s a great role model and so, so sharp!”
When asked the secret to her longevity, Goldyphyllis responded, “I have no idea. I wish I knew. I really can’t believe I’m this old!”
No matter how old or young you are, you are welcome and celebrated at KDL. We really do offer something for everyone!
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