- April 25, 2024
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It all began with a visit to Palm Coast to see her sister one January, nearly 30 years ago. Theresa and her husband Al were living in London, Ontario, Canada, and the Florida winter was far more appealing.
Owen started as a volunteer at the Flagler County Public Library, when it was crammed into a storefront in the Palm Harbor Shopping Center.
Her first job was opening oyster shells at Marineland for tourists who were hoping to find a pearl.
“It was fun,” she said. “But I still volunteered at the library, and my kid's school libraries.”
She began her library career as an assistant 1 librarian in the children's department at the Flagler County Public Library. She didn't have her bachelors, or the library of science degree needed to be a librarian – but that would change, and she would advance to her current the position, as children's librarian – the job she will say goodbye to on June 23.
“I remember feeling so at home when I started here,” Owen said. “This was really a good fit for me. I am the oldest of eight, so I have been taking care of children my whole life.”
She implemented the PAWS to Read program, a joint venture with the Flagler Humane Society.
“The first time I did pet therapy was because Theresa asked me to bring an animal to reading time,” Yvonne Presley, Flagler Humane Society volunteer said. “She has been a mentor and inspiration to all of us.”
Owen received the Outstanding Achievement Award for her innovative programming in 2007, when her staff built an igloo out of milk cartons for the children to go into and read.
Between work and family, Owen didn't get to appreciate her Florida lifestyle as much as she wanted.
“I've never really had time to enjoy what's here,” she said.
The couple also has plans to travel, starting with a trip to Israel with family in June – 10 days before her retirement becomes official on July 7.
“There are parents now bringing their children to her programs who were the youngsters when she started her career here,” said Library Director Holly Albanese. “We wish her well on the next chapter of her life, but she will truly be missed by all.”
