Profile: New Steeleville Library director Christine Kamprath
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Christine Kamprath was recently named the new director of the Steeleville Area Public Library.
Kamprath came to Steeleville from?Peoria, IL after working 16 years as a process specialist for Caterpillar.
Kamprath is married to Blake Duncan, Pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in?Steeleville.
"I found out about the director position being available when a church member mentioned it to me and asked me to apply," said Kamprath.
Kamprath has a doctorate degree in linguistics and has always had an interest in education, so she decided to apply.
Since beginning her job at the library Kamprath has been busy reviewing acquisitions policies.
"I have also partnered with Steeleville High?School in general to see what they need and how we can serve them better, " said Kamprath. "On a larger scale we have created a survey for our patrons. The survey asks people what they want at the library. Then we will go from there based on the survey."
Kamprath stated she loves the community of Steeleville.
"I am extra impressed with the teachers. They are so dedicated and enthusiastic. People are so friendly. They have so much local expertise. They have been very helpful."
Kamprath is an avid gardner and resides in Steeleville with her husband and two cats.
Kamprath wants the community to know that the library offers numerous programs for residents.
"The library's Genealogy Room contains fascinating materials related to the history of Steeleville, Randolph County, and southern Illinois. A computer is available for on-line family history searches. The History/Genealogy Club and the Book Club meet monthly at the library, and are open to all, free of charge," stated Kamprath.
Kamprath also noted the library also presents a monthly Story Hour for children through the 4th grade. A bank of computers offers free broad-band access to the Internet. For more information call the library at 965-9732.
The Steeleville Area Public Library has been reviewing and expanding their selection of books and magazines. Several hundred new books have recently been purchased, and over 1200 "nearly new" donations have been accepted. The library continue to look for interesting titles to buy, and we welcome your suggestions. Duplicates and older copies are for sale at the library for 25-50 cents each.
"We welcome people to come in and offer ideas on what they want. We respond to people's recommendation on books to purchase," stated Kamprath.
The library has received tax forms and reference booklets for Illinois and Federal taxes. Beginning in mid-February, trained volunteers will be available to help seniors and low-income households complete their tax forms, free of charge. To schedule an appointment, call Donna at (618) 965-9523.
Free GED classes continue to be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the library, 1-4:30 p.m. The classes are taught by a certified teacher from the Randolph Education Office. For more information, call Melanie at (618) 826-5417 ext.107, or just come to a class.
As of February 15, the cost of a new or renewed non-resident library card will be $40. This increase is mandated by law, based on updated data on property values and household size within the Steeleville Library district.
The library is located at 625 South Sparta, Steeleville. They can be reached at 618.965.9732. Their hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.