Jean Howard, Callaway County Library District Board Member
Jean and her husband moved to Callaway County in 1989 when he accepted the position of superintendent of schools at the North Callaway R-I School District, and they have stayed on past his retirement. For the last 45 years, Jean has been a registered and licensed dietitian. She says, “It has been a great career choice for me, and allowed me to own my own business while working in a field I enjoy.”
What do you like about living in Mid-Missouri?
My husband and I were able to build a nice home on some acreage, which may not have been possible if we had lived in another state or city. I’m able to plan, tend and enjoy all the flowers, berries, trees and shrubs I have planted over the years. And I like having four seasons of weather. I appreciate living within an easy drive to St. Louis and Kansas City, and a short drive to Columbia.
What three words best describe the library?
Innovative, service-oriented, inclusive.
What has surprised you most about serving on the board?
The biggest surprise for me as a new board member was discovering all the services that the library offers, and I wish others knew how many various services and resources the library offers free of charge.
How is the library different today than it was 10 years ago?
Technology is advancing at light speed, and our library staff strives to take advantage of every good thing that technology can allow us to do.
In the spirit of the library’s mission to promote lifelong learning, is there anything that you would personally like to learn more about?
I would like to learn more about art history and art appreciation. I missed that during my high school and college years, and now I have the time to pursue that interest.
What is one of your favorite library memories?
When I was growing up, the arrival of the bookmobile in our rural neighborhood in the summer was a highly anticipated event for me, my siblings and the neighbor kids. I’ve never forgotten how precious those borrowed books were and feel lucky to have had the opportunity to check out new books every few weeks.
Each library board member serves on his or her own district board as well as on the Daniel Boone Regional Library board, which is the governing body responsible for policy-making and fiscal oversight.