EIGHT years of her life have been dedicated to books and her local library, but last week saw Ingrid Filand stepping down from her position as the librarian of the Sunnydale library, eShowe.
The local resident has dedicated her afternoons to the library over the past eight years because of her love of books and local community.
‘I enjoy helping the community, especially the pupils.
When they come in to research for a maths, history or geography assignment for example, you take an active part in helping them.
‘You get down on your knees and hunt down the book they need,’ she laughs.
The 65-year-old’s work in the library has also assisted her to uncover information regarding her family history.
‘I found out about my great-grandfather, Henry William Longcast, who was a translator for King Cetshwayo.
‘All of this information was sitting right under my nose in those books on the shelves!’
Filand says this chapter of her life may have come to an end, but she will still make herself available to her community.
‘I want to help with the youth in my church next year.
‘I want to encourage them to read and strive for good morals,’ she said.
Her advice to parents and children over the festive season is to visit their local library together.
‘Parents can bond with their children by reading to them over the holidays.
‘Go to your library and find out more!’
