Combined 90 Years Of Library Service Recognised

In the past week, Maitland City Library team members, Peter Woodley and Olga McTackett have celebrated 40 and 50 years respectively, of service to Maitland Libraries and the community.

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Council’s Manager Libraries and Learning, Keryl Collard says ‘We’re proud to see Peter and Olga reach these significant milestones. Their experience is invaluable, and we’re extremely lucky to have them on the Maitland Libraries team.

‘They share a passion for reading, local history and connecting with the community. In turn, they’re both Maitland icons and are well known and well loved for the warm and professional service they have given over many years.

Olga started with Council on 10 August 1970 as a library assistant.

Olga was recognised for her excellent service to the community in 2018 when she received the NSW Service Medallion in a ceremony at Parliament House.

Looking back at her time at Maitland City Library branches Olga says 'there was not a day where I haven't wanted to go to work. I love the people I work with and the library has been a big part of my life’.

Peter started with Council on 5 August 1980 and was the city’s first male deputy Librarian. Peter moved to Maitland after securing a Degree in Economics and Diploma of Librarianship from Sydney University.

Talking about his time at Maitland City Library Peter says ‘I just kept wanting to come back and no one told me to stop.

‘I love being so embedded and giving something back that is good for the community. I’m happy to help promote libraries values of literacy, knowledge and freedom of information.’

Council will be recognising Olga and Peter’s service, along with other long serving staff at a celebratory morning tea next week.