We lost Charles, our dearly beloved Meekins Library visiting canine companion and mascot this week on December 6, 2022. Born on Flag Day, June 14, 2011, he was 11. Officially, he belonged to the Library Director, but he won the hearts of staff and library patrons alike, whenever he visited, with his big liquid-brown eyes, which looked beseechingly at you, especially if he thought you had a treat hidden somewhere. He introduced himself to everyone, making friends with the young and the young at heart.
Affectionately known as Charlie, he was the smart and very handsome grand-old-man of the Library, who kept track of everyone and everything. He kept us going during the dark days of COVID, greeting people at the partially open lobby door, encouraging them to take the books on the special displays. He could also be found supervising the installation of hand sanitizer dispensers to keep patrons safe. He oversaw the checking-in and checking-out of thousands of books. When the Library was closed during the pandemic, he patrolled the stacks hunting down that red ball that always seemed to be escaping. Rochelle and Charlie were known to have hide and seek games in the stacks as well. When he was not engaged in his official library activities, he would bask in the sunshine in front of his favorite tall window—keeping tabs on the comings and goings in town.
His morning walk at the farm would sometimes tire him out, so he had been known to just “rest” his snout on the carpet and close his eyes. When he needed a little more exercise, he visited a friend’s treadmill—keeping vigilant watch there, as well.
Charlie, our regal German Shepherd, with his intelligent face, his silky black and gold coat, and his playful attitude, will be well remembered. Rest in Peace Dear Charlie. Daria D’Arienzo, Meekins Archivist and photographer. #throwbackthursday; #tbt.
Posted to Facebook 12/8/2022
