Kathy Denton’s career in social services concluded with 13 years as Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities. The Lower Paxton Township resident launched retirement in January 2015 by volunteering for the Kline Library in Harrisburg, close to where she grew up. “It’s the place that has my heart,” she says. “It’s such a wonderful, cozy, comfortable, welcoming library.” 

Do you have a favorite book? First one, without question, is probably the first book I ever loved – “Mr. Dog,” the Little Golden Book by Margaret Wise Brown. I still look at it and touch it and read it. The Other is “The Library Book.” Susan Orlean wrote it, and she is coming to Harrisburg in November as a guest speaker. It’s one of the most interesting books I’ve ever read. 

What have you learned from volunteering? Libraries are as important as ever. So many members need to use computers and printers. People get help putting their resume together, writing letters for employment, and filling out applications online. 

What surprises you as a library volunteer? For a lot of people who use the library, English is not their first language. I have a lot of respect for them and I’m happy we are there to help. 

What do you want people to know about today’s libraries? Be as generous as you can, financially. A monthly donation that goes directly to Dauphin County Library System is easy, and it makes me feel so good. I also consider it is a sensational idea to remember the library system in my will. Also, get involved in a Friends group, which helps with fundraising.

What are you reading right now? I am reading a book I got at our book sale, “The Moral Landscape: How Science Can Determine Human Values,” by Sam Harris. It’s exceedingly apropos with the coronavirus and the public policy that affects public health and safety. Fascinating.