• Hunsaker retires after 31 years with LCSD#2

Storytime at the county library is where it all began. Like clockwork, each Saturday morning became ten-year-old Shelley’s time to shine as she ushered her younger sisters, Lynda and Paige, and other unsuspecting neighborhood children, through the doors of the local library and positioned them in a perfect semicircle. With engaging literature and the occasional flannel board that coaxed increased interest and faithful attendance, her life’s passion was born.

“I often think about those two, kind county librarians who patiently tolerated me marching a ragtag parade of noisy children into their quiet, beautifully organized library each week,” said Shelley Hunsaker, who has served the children of Lincoln County School District #2 for 31 years in library and reading programs, and the most recent seven years as District Librarian. “Little did they know they were witnessing the very beginnings of my library career.”

Her “love of books and reading” is rooted in family tradition, with parents who “instilled in [her] an appreciation for literature as a source of joy and lifelong learning.”

Shelley’s work with LCSD#2 began 31 years ago at Osmond Elementary School (OES) as a reading paraprofessional. Over time, her love of reading made it possible for her to fill the role of school librarian at OES. Her knowledge and skills increased under the mentorship of ReNae Bowling, Mary Lisota, and Carol Nield, as she “discovered what it truly meant to be a librarian. They were knowledgeable, patient, and inspiring teachers who made a lasting impact on me both professionally and personally.”

While at OES and with full support from the building principal, Daniel Barnes, and Superintendent Matt Erickson, Shelley launched a Makerspace program in the library, providing students with “engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences. Through creativity, exploration, and problem- solving, students developed meaningful skills in science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and encouraging environment.”

During the 17 years that she served as the school librarian at OES, she completed an online Library Media degree program through Black Hills State University, which allowed her to transition into her work as the K–12 district librarian, where she completed the final leg of her career, expanding LCSD #2 media programs, and consequently, the minds of children, with her passion for literature.

As the LCSD #2 District Librarian, Shelley ensured that the Makerspace program was made available in buildings throughout the district. “While each program looks different depending on the grade level, the goal remains the same: inspiring curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.”

“What began with a simple question from my son-in-law about how many books he should read to his newborn daughter has grown into a wonderful community-driven initiative,” said Shelley. Her answer to his question was 1000 Books Before Kindergarten. For the last seven years, the LCSD #2 Education Foundation has supported the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program. “As a new district librarian, this was the very first literacy program I wanted to champion. The message behind 1000 Books Before Kindergarten is simple and powerful: read just one book to your child every other day, and by the time they enter kindergarten, they will have experienced 1,000 books.”

As a librarian, Shelley has cherished her opportunities to open the eyes of children to the world of literature and the powerful freedom of reading. On occasion, that opportunity has truly shaped the life of a student in critical ways.  Shelley’s experiences with Asefa, an adopted fifth-grade student who was born in Ethiopia, are particularly meaningful for her. She met with Asefa each morning in the library. To overcome a language barrier, they communicated through pictures and simple words, and she enjoyed his “wonderful sense of humor.” Within a few months, Asefa was able to read books on his own, and “the joy on his face when he finished his first chapter book is something I will always remember.” With this foundation and Asefa’s continued education, he was able to excel in athletics and academics, earning a scholarship, which allowed him to complete an MBA. “Remembering our time reading together remains one of the great joys of my career.”

“A former student of mine, Collin — now grown into such a wonderful young man — [recently] brought me one of his favorite books,” Shelley added to her memories. “The sweetest part of Collin’s gift was that he had also recorded himself reading the story aloud for me. That beautiful audiobook recording is something I will treasure for many years to come.”

In 2023, Shelley was honored as Wyoming’s Librarian of the Year. “That recognition opened the door for me to become even more involved in literacy efforts across the state.” Though she is retiring from LCSD #2, she has agreed to serve as a member with the Soaring Eagle Book Award Committee and with the Wyoming State Literacy Association, which will facilitate her continued involvement in the Wyoming Young Authors program.

“Most importantly, however, I plan to cherish every possible moment spent with my family.” Shelley’s husband, Mike Hunsaker, has been a source of “patience, kindness, and unwavering support” earning him the title of “Honorary Librarian” in the family.  Mike and Shelley are the “proud” parents of five children and the “grateful” grandparents of 18 grandchildren.

Shelley plans to fill her retirement days with other things she loves, such as quilting, reading, daily walking, camping and traveling with her family. She expects to “read some more and work in the garden and then when I have a little extra time on my hands, I would like to read some more.”

“I feel incredibly lucky to be part of this wonderful profession,” Shelley smiled. “Sharing books with children and helping them discover the joy of finding a ‘just right book’ has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Being a librarian has truly been a dream come true for me and working alongside such an amazing team of librarians has been icing on the cake.”