Cherie Schiffer joins library as new board secretary

MILLERTON — When there’s work to be done, it’s always a good idea to find a tried and true recruit, which is just how Cherie Schiffer ended up as the new secretary of the NorthEast-Millerton Library’s Board of Trustees.

With a laugh and her typical good humor, Schiffer said, “I became secretary because the president, Debbie Ruppel, knew I was the class secretary in high school — so I couldn’t say no to her.”

A  graduate of Webutuck High School and SUNY Cortland, Schiffer spent most of her life in the area. The last 28 years she spent in Millerton, and said she believes in supporting local businesses and organizations.

Finding  the  time to take on the volunteer office, Schiffer notes, “I am retired from Taconic DDSO, where I worked as an adult educator, the director of the Millbrook Neighborhood Center and a service coordinator in the social work department.”

As a library patron since she arrived in town, she is partial to the facility’s books and videos and has made use of the “computers, printers, copiers and fax machine” when necessary. These days, with the library closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, many of the library’s best resources can be found online, at www.nemillertonlibrary.org.

“[When open], the library has something for everyone, whether it’s a children’s group, knitting or crafts group or mahjong games, and it’s a place for local musicians to play,” she added. “I was glad to join the board when asked because of all the wonderful programs the library offers.”

Schiffer is filling one of the holes left on the board by the departure of  long-time Trustee Dianne Price and Secretary KC Perkins, according to Library Director Rhiannon Leo-Jameson.

“She is a long-time library volunteer and we are excited to have her in this new role,” said Leo-Jameson.

Of the retiring board members, Leo-Jameson said, “KC’s long-time devotion to the library in the role of secretary leaves huge shoes to fill. We appreciate all her hard work over the years. She will be missed, but we are looking forward to Cherie picking up the mantel.”

She added that Price, a retired teacher, was a particularly active volunteer and could often be seen working at the library at craft sales and on summer days, even sitting on the library lawn giving individual reading instruction to children.

“As long-time board president, Diane was  involved with numerous projects including fundraising and stabilization, the Annex acquisition and programs for children,” she said. “Though not on the board, she will continue her volunteer efforts to the benefit of all.”

Leo-Jameson explained that the board members “are library stewards.” They secure funding, set policies and manage the big picture, including supporting projects such as the Memorial Garden, the renovation and stabilization of the building and other outdoor improvements.

“We are so fortunate to have members of the board from the community. It is a wonderful way to give back — a tradition continuing since 1867,” said Leo-Jameson.

Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a library Board of Trustees member should contact Leo-Jameson at 518-789-3340.