The Ainsworth Library Foundation has purchased this bronze statue in memory of former librarian Freda Hinrichs. What an awesome addition to our library! Freda loved to work with children and encouraged them to read lots of books.
The Library lost power on Saturday, March 23rd. Trent Kinney and NPPD came to our rescue! A new line was installed the morning of the 27th. Threerivers also came and helped us get the internet back up. I would like to say thank you to these guys! It is so hard to do any work at the library without power! We are appreciating the lights, working computers, and having the internet! Being in the dark is not fun. Hope I never have to use my flashlight on my phone at the library again to find books in the stacks! Thanks again to the hard working men in our community.
As many of you may have noticed, the street construction is right in front of the library! Please be careful when in the area. Parents, you may want to visit with your children about safety in the construction zone while visiting the library or playing in the park. Library patrons may park on 5th street. You may use the back door or front door to enter the library. The notice has come out that the Highway 7 construction will start on April 1st so more large equipment to deal with on the next block. Be safe everyone!
The April Book Club title will be “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus. We will be gathering together on April 15th at 2 p.m. to share thoughts on this novel. We have copies available for readers to check out.
This will be the last Book Club Discussion until the fall. The group will be taking the summer off.
I found ALL of these jobs listed on the KBRB radio website:
HELP WANTED:
* Brown County is taking applications for a full-time position in the Road Department. The main job description consists of grading and maintaining roads, and other road department duties. Required qualifications will be to have or obtain a Class A CDL drivers license, be willing to work overtime as needed, and have a good working relation with others. Experience operating a motor grader and other heavy equipment is helpful but would be will to train the right employee. Work days typically will be Monday thru Friday. Starting wage is $20 per hour with Class A CDL, $18.50 without Class A CDL, or based on experience. Retirement, 13 paid holidays, paid vacation, sick leave and insurance benefits included. Applications and complete job description is available at the Brown County Clerk’s Office; 148 West 4th Street, Ainsworth or by calling the Brown County Highway Superintendent at 322-1999. Applications will be accepted through April 1, 2024 at 5 p.m.
* Are you a problem solver who enjoys working with a variety of heavy equipment? Are you motivated, dependable and hard working? Come be an essential member of the Frontier Diesel crew. Be known for working with the best in the business as a Diesel Technician performing everything from routine and preventative maintenance to diagnosing and repairs, you can make from $27 – $38 per hour. Mechanical knowledge of diesel engines and truck and trailer maintenance preferred. Good communication and customer service skills and the ability to multi task in a fast paced work environment are a must! Sign on bonus, profit sharing, health insurance reimbursement, dental, vision and life insurance, PTO and more. Plus there’s room to grow. If you are seeking career satisfaction and are ready to be a part of a dynamic team that works together like a well oiled machine stop by Frontier Diesel in Ainsworth for your application or call Bruce or Angie to learn more at 387-2635.
* Sandhill Equipment is looking to fill a Full time truck driver position to support their sales department with equipment delivery, transporting Ag Equipment to/from customers and/or between dealer facilities. Experience preferred however, it is not required – they’re willing to train! CDL (or ability to obtain) is a must. If you’re reliable, have knowledge of ag equipment, strapping down loads and hauling, this is the position for you. Great Pay, benefits and you’re home in the evenings. Stop in at Sandhill Equipment, just west of Bassett along Hwy. 20 to pick up your application or call Brett to learn more at 684-2331.
* A generous heart, kind speech and compassion are things which renew humanity. Come join the team at the Brown County Hospital, full time and part time positions are available for RNs, LPNs and Dietary Cooks, a full time position is also available in housekeeping. Earn a very competitive wage and an outstanding benefits package is offered for full time employees! Contact Tawny Allen or Lisa Fischer, Human Resources by calling 387-2800 or email tallen@browncountyhospital.org or lfischer@browncountyhospital.org. You can complete an application online by going to www.browncountyhospital.org.
* Central Valley Ag is searching for a dedicated Feed Production Technician to join our growing team in Ainsworth, Nebraska! In this role, you’ll be responsible for mixing feed, ensuring optimal quality, and keeping our operation running smoothly. We offer a competitive compensation and benefit package and a positive work environment. If you’re a detailed-oriented individual with a strong work ethic and a passion for agriculture, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! To learn more and apply, visit c-v-a co-op dot com back slash careers.
* Do you start every Monday feeling even more tired than you did on Friday? If your Sunday scaries persist – the issue may be your job. THIS SPRING could be just the start of the best move you ever made! The Nebraska Department of Transportation in Ainsworth is now accepting applications for a Highway Maintenance worker. Not only will you receive great pay and off the charts benefits, there is so much to be said about doing rewarding work that matters. Experience in the operation of heavy equipment or farming background is preferred but not required. CDL will be required but don’t let that scare you off. NDOT’s paid CDL training will put you on the fast track to advance your career and your pay check. What can it hurt to be open to a different opportunity? Call and visit with Shaun to learn more at 402-387-2471. For a complete description and to apply, log on to statejobs.nebraska.gov or scan the QR Code below. NDOT is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
* It’s time to elevate your career by joining the respected leader in the agriculture industry. Buckley Steel is looking to expand their Millwright team. If you have mechanical ability, your CDL (or are capable of getting one), if you enjoy operating machinery and are a good communicator dedicated to excellent customer service, you could be making from $28 to $34 per hour, starting pay! PLUS benefits including paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, help with relocation expenses, out of town incentive pay, room to grow AND MORE! Come be a driving force in servicing and renovating commercial and large farm grain facilities with Buckley Steel in Ainsworth. Email resumes to kim@buckleysteel.com or mail to PO Box 2, Ainsworth, NE 69210 OR apply in person. If you have questions call Kim at 402-387-0347 or on his cell at 402-760-0200.
* If you have a passion for agriculture, are mechanically inclined, customer driven and are interested in better pay and being part of a great team, you will be right at home at Sandhill Equipment as a full time service technician performing general repair, preventative maintenance, servicing, trouble shooting and set up of hay equipment and other ag related equipment. If you’re self motivated and have tools – get them loaded up and come work independently at Sandhill Equipment, just west of Bassett. Stop in today for your application or call Dennis, Brett or Scott at 402-684- 2331.
* Do you like working with people and want a job that helps Nebraskans make memories and enjoy the best parts of our state? The Nebraska Game and Parks Office in Bassett has an immediate opening for a 20-hour per week part-time office professional to work with our friendly team in a customer service role. This is a permanent position that includes retirement, health insurance and leave benefits. To learn more, call Peggy at 402-684-2921 or apply online at statejobs.nebraska.gov. Help the public enjoy Nebraska’s outdoors in a rewarding environment – and support Nebraska’s wildlife, fish and state parks. Call Peggy at 402-684-2921 to learn more about this unique job opportunity with the Game and Parks Commission, or apply online at statejobs.nebraska.gov today.
* Are you looking for a new career? Join Central Valley Ag today as a fuel delivery driver in the Ainsworth area. As a full time delivery driver, you’ll deliver refined fuels and propane, deliver top-notch customer service and be a part of a team that keeps the community moving. You’ll need a Class B CDL, a ‘can-do’ attitude, and a passion for safety. CVA offers competitive pay and great benefits. Fuel your career with CVA. Visit cvacoop.com\careers to apply today. Central Valley Ag, Growing Agriculture together.
* Do you like solving a wide range of mechanic problems? Are you looking for new challenges? As an automotive and diesel mechanic in Ainsworth with the Nebraska Department of Transportation, you’ll be a part of a supportive team that takes great pride in ensuring equipment is on the road, where it belongs, to help support safe travel through the state of Nebraska. This exceptional opportunity brings with it stability, very competitive pay, a great work life balance and an off the charts benefits package that include health, dental and vision insurance, ample paid time off, retirement, the list goes on and on! They provide tools, training, career development and advancement opportunities. To learn more, visit the Ainsworth Yard at 736 E. Fourth St., or call Matt at 402-387-2471. For a complete description and to apply log on to statejobs.nebraska.gov. NDOT is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
* Are you ready for a change of pace? Seven Springs of Long Pine has a position for you. They are looking to fill a driver position, a CDL is NOT required and they are also looking for help in bottling. Greatness is everywhere in the Sandhills, we’re fortunate enough to have the greatest water in the world right here, so come be a part of providing the crisp clean taste of Seven Springs water to everyone. If you’re looking for work, give Todd Thornton a call today to learn more about what’s available at Seven Springs in Long Pine, phone 402-273-4295.
* Are you looking for rewarding, meaningful work in the great outdoors? The Ainsworth Irrigation District is Hiring! They are looking to fill a full time Ditch Rider/General Laborer position monitoring ditches, drains, canals and laterals and ensuring that all patrons get their water. Knowledge of water properties and flow characteristics, ag experience, safe work practices, ability to work with minimal supervision, and good communication skills are a plus, but if you’re willing to work and eager to learn, this could be the position for you. A very competitive wage is offered, great benefits and room to grow. For a detailed description and an application, stop in at the office one mile east and ¼ mile north of Ainsworth or call 402-387-2440. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license. CDL is preferred but not required.
* The Ainsworth Child Development Center is looking for full-time, part-time and substitute educators to work in our infant, toddler and preschool classrooms. Full-time position starting wage $12-$15 (depending on qualifications). Substitute wage is $13 per hour with child care available at a reduced rate based on capacity. Benefits Include no nights or weekends, flexible four-day working schedule, opportunities for professional development, paid holidays and time off. Qualifications include having a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. No previous experience is required. Contact Ashlie Wright at director@ainsworthchildcare.com, call 402-450-9314 or visit us at ainsworthchildcare.com. ACDC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
* Are you looking for a rewarding and fulfilling position helping kids learn? As a full time Preschool Temporary Center Assistant at Little Paws Preschool in Ainsworth March thru Mid May, not only will you earn competitive pay, with a starting wage of $14 per hour, you get to witness so many ground breaking moments and daily ‘wins’. Successful applicant will assist teacher with daily activities, planning, and help with cooking and cleaning. Applicant must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid Nebraska Drivers license and a working phone. Previous experience working with children preferred. For your application call 308-745-0780 ext. 105 or apply online at www.centralnebraskacap.com. This position will remain open until filled. EEO/AA
* Central Nebraska Community Action Partnership is looking to fill a full time position, (temporary until August) as an “Ainsworth Little Paws Preschool Home Visitor”. A competitive wage is offered as well as an outstanding benefits package, but what’s more, it’s a great opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, providing assistance and support to families enrolled in the program. Qualified individuals must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid Nebraska Driver’s License and a working phone. Previous experience working with families with preschool-age children preferred. For an application or to learn more, call HR at 308-745-0780 ext. 105 or apply online at www.centralnebraskacap.com. Positions will remain open until filled. EEO/AA.
* Find your fix! Come work for Buckles Automotive Napa, where there’s never a dull moment. It’s a fast paced, high energy workplace that offers very competitive pay, merit increases, healthcare and cell phone allowances, store discount, plus locally owned, flexibility perks for ALL parts of life. Working at Buckles provides you unique opportunities to build long lasting community relationships in an environment where you can grow. If you want to be a part of something like that – Buckles Automotive Napa in Ainsworth could be right where you belong. Stop in and visit with Dave or call 387-1171.
* Come be a part of a team that is compassionate about providing quality care to each of their residents! If you have the passion, The Sandhills Care Center in Ainsworth has a position for you. Charge nurses – RNs and LPNs, CNAs, dietary, housekeeping and laundry aides. BOTH full time and part time positions are available. Very competitive pay, insurance benefits for full time employees and flexible work schedules. All this in addition to being a part of a mission driven team that serves for the right reasons. It’s easy to apply, call Administrator Penny Jacobs at the Sandhills Care Center , where they’re proud to put people first. Phone 387-1294.
The Ainsworth Library Board held its regular monthly meeting on March 6, 2024 at the Public Library. This meeting was advertised in the local newspaper, over the radio, and posted at the Library and on the Library’s Facebook page/Website. The meeting was called to order at 5 p.m. Notice was given on the posting of the Nebraska Open Meeting Act. Roll call showed three members present (Todd Flynn, Stacy Gilliland, and Luke Hitchcock). Members Phyllis Leach and Alane Lentz were absent. Library Director, Gail Irwin, was also present for the meeting.
Luke H. made the motion to approve the minutes which Todd F. seconded. Vote showed all members voting in favor of. Luke H. moved to approve the claims for payment after a correction was made to show Literary Guild with $59.88 instead of $249.12. Stacy seconded this with all members voting in favor of. The list of titles purchased was also share with the Monthly Library Report for February. The Board discussed the need to train someone to work at the library occasional when other library staff cannot. Our one helper passed away and our other helper is not able to do this due to her job. Director will contact a person that staff feels would be a good worker and see if she has an interest. The Board discussed the cost of having an ad in the Ainsworth Senior Center monthly newsletter. It was decided that we could not use tax money for this. The road construction has started on North Main Street. They will move one block at a time. It is not known when they will be working in front of the library, but it will be soon. The City said it would be ok to have people park in front of the library until the crew is on the 5th-6th street block. At that time, people will need to park along 5th street just north of the library. The library will have the back door open in case people want to enter that way. The front door will also be open. There will be some temporary interruptions to sewer and water services while they disconnect/reconnect the service lines-but those will be short lived and the City will let us know before that happens.
Blind Date with a Book was held all of February. We had 23 books selected for this program and all 23 were checked out by 12 different readers. Winner of the “Cozy Up & Read” Basket was Jean Pinney. This basket was donated by Wanda Raymond.
Book Club was discussed. A review was given on the February selection of “Here’s to Us” by Hilderbrand. The March selection will be “Educated” by Tara Westover. The April selection will be “Lessons in Chemistry” by Garmus. The Book club will be taking a summer break and will not meet from May-August. The group will restart in September.
Read Across America Week will be honored from March 4-9th. A Dr. Seuss Hour was held on March 4th. We had several girls attend. They had fun reading Seuss books, making a Cat in the Hat craft, and playing Seuss Bingo. They loved the Bingo prizes.
A Poison Prevention Education Class will be held on March 12th for the preschool to 2nd grade children. The Nebraska Regional Poison Center supplied the material for this class. Pinky the Elephant will help us teach what is poison, where is poison, and medicine safety. We have a Pinky Coloring Book to hand out in Spanish and English as well as material for the parents, and stickers/magnets with the Poison Control phone number.
It was noted that the Community Blood Pressure Monitor has arrived at the Library and being used. We have two sizes of blood pressure cuffs to use with the machine. This inventory was given to the library by the North Central District Health Department and American Heart Association HeartCorps.
National Library Week will be celebrated April 7-13th. The library plans to hold a special storytime, hand out solar sunglasses for the total Solar Eclipse on April 8th and hold training on the telescope. D.E.A.R. Day (Drop Everything and Read Day) will be observed on April 12th.
It was noted the Art Guild will hold its Spring Art Show at the Library from April 12-29th. Judging on art work will be done on April 13th with winners moving on to the State Art Show.
An update was given on the workshops/meetings attended by library staff. It was noted that our Director had attended three Thursday Morning Zoom meetings on Feb. 1st, 8th, and 15th. Topics covered included performers for summer reading programs, author talks, and Word Press. The Ainsworth Library Foundation Board held a meeting on Feb. 21st. Several memorial funds were discussed and spending approved of. The library was closed on the 23rd so staff could attend the all-day conference Big Talk from Small Libraries. It was noted that the session titled “Accepting Credit Cards with Payport” was interesting and that board members should watch the recording of this. The Board needs to get 6 more CEU’s to be recertified by 9-30-24. Director will be in Lincoln on March 20th for the Nebraska State Library Advisory Board meeting and the Nebraska Legislature Day.
Under correspondence, the board was shared information on Nebraska’s new Voter ID law. Fliers have been posted on the bulletin board in both English/Spanish on voter ID. Articles of interest from various library newsletters/journal were shared with the Board. A discussion was held on the world of AI (artificial intelligence) and how librarians reflect on uses, ethics, and implications.
The next meeting date was set for April 3rd at 5 p.m. Since there was no further business to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 5:43 p.m.
Ainsworth Library Board will be meeting on March 6, 2024 at 5 p.m. at the public library. Please note that this meeting is open to the public.
AGENDA
1. Call meeting to order
2. Notice of the posting of the Nebraska Open Meeting Act
3. Roll call
4. Approve minutes
5. Approve claims for payment
6. Monthly Library Report/List of titles Purchases/Need/train some extra help at library/construction work starting on North Main Street & how to handle when in front of library
7. Blind Date with a Book
8. Book Club: Review of Feb. 20th: “Here’s to US”-Hilderbrand
March 18th: “Educated”-Westover
April 15th: “Lessons in Chemistry”
9. Storytime: Review of Feb. 20th Love topic
March 19th St. Patrick’s topic
April 16th Spring topic
10. Read Across America-Dr. Seuss Hour-March 4
11. Poison Prevention Education Class-March 12
12. Community Blood Pressure Monitor
13. National Library Week April 7-13
14. Total Solar Eclipse April 8th
15. D.E.A.R. Day (Drop Everything and Read Day)-April 12
16. Art Guild’s Spring Art Show April 12-29
17. Workshop-Meetings:
a. Thursday Director’s Zoom Meeting: Feb. 1st, 8th, and 15th
b. Library Foundation Board Meeting-Feb. 21st
c. Big Talk from Small Libraries-March 23rd
d. Nebraska State Library Advisory Board-March 20th-Lincoln
e. Nebraska Legislature Day-March 20th-Lincoln
18. Correspondence:
a. Information on New Voter ID Law
b. Articles of interest from Library Journals/Newsletters
