When Faye Merdian talks about her life, it’s hard not to feel inspired. She's a storyteller, a traveler, a grandmother, a lifelong learner—and now, a friendly face at the Galesburg Public Library.
Faye’s path to the library wasn’t typical. After retiring, she wasn’t quite ready to slow down. “I wanted something part-time, something I’d really enjoy,” she says. Thanks to a national program called NAPCA, which connects older adults with meaningful work opportunities, Faye discovered a role at the library that combined her love of people with her hunger for learning.
But Faye’s story doesn’t begin here. Born in Wisconsin and raised on a dairy farm in northern Illinois, she has always had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and adventure. “Farther north, the happier I am,” she jokes. And it’s no surprise—her love of nature and flight has led her to hot air balloon rides in Peoria, helicopter tours, and ziplining 465 feet above the Smoky Mountains. “In my next life, I’m going to be a pilot,” she laughs. “Or maybe I already am, in spirit.”
Though her feet are on the ground for now, Faye hasn’t stopped soaring. At the library, she’s not just clocking hours—she’s diving into new technology, learning the ropes, and watching how the space brings joy to others. “This library is phenomenal,” she says with heartfelt enthusiasm. “It’s warm, welcoming, and truly spectacular. I walked through every space and couldn’t pick a favorite—they’re all my favorite.”
Faye’s excitement is infectious. Whether she’s sharing tips about scenic hiking trails, recounting stories of her grandchildren, or pointing out her favorite reading spot near the fireplace, her passion for life—and for the library—is clear.
“I’ve been part of a lot of libraries over the years, especially with my grandkids,” she says. “But this one? It’s something special. The people who work here love it, and the people who come here love it too.”
We’re grateful that Faye has made the Galesburg Public Library a stop on her journey—and we can’t wait to see where her next chapter leads.
Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.
Faye’s story is one of many, and we can’t wait to introduce you to more of the neighbors, readers, and everyday explorers who make the Galesburg Public Library such a vibrant place. Follow along as we continue to share these inspiring voices in the next installment of Bookmarked: Stories from the Stacks.
