Meet the Staff
Find more information about library services.
1515 Forest Ave.
Crete, NE 68333
Phone: 402.826.3809
Current library hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Tuesday and Thursday - 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
- (Monday-Friday - Drive-thru window opens 8:30 a.m.)
- Saturday - 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Jessica Wilkinson - Director
Jessica is responsible for the administration, planning, and development of all library services, programs, operations, staff, and facilities. She works closely with the Library Board of Trustees, community partners, and local government to ensure the library meets the educational, cultural, and recreational needs of the community.
Laura Renker - Assistant Director & Outreach Services Librarian
I served as the youth services librarian for 20 years and in fall 2022 transitioned into a new role with Outreach Services. It was a pleasure to watch the children grow up and to be part of their reading lives.
I enjoy many types of books, but my favorite books are usually historical fiction. One young adult author whose books I especially enjoy is Ruta Sepetys. I read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice every year. Other authors that I like to recommend: Sandra Dallas, Sarah Addison Allen, Joyo Moyes, Liane Moriarty and Barbara Kingsolver. Everyone should read Wonder by R.J. Palacio.
Maridza Vasquez - Youth Services Librarian
Maridza provides library services to children and teens (ages 0-17) and their families. This includes collection management, delivering age-appropriate programming, and building strong relationships with local schools and community organizations through outreach.
Zoraida Ramos - Librarian
Zoraida is a bilingual Librarian who maintains the Spanish language collections and is our amazing Interlibrary Loan Specialist.
Tad Shubert - Technology Librarian
Tad manages our adult non-fiction and DVD collection while also offering Nature-themed and Technology programs.
Gloria Keck - Library Clerk
Gloria is a front-line customer service and clerical support to ensure efficient daily operations of the library. She assists patrons with library services, maintains library materials, and supports staff in delivering programs and services to the community. If you need horror book recommendations, she is definitely your person!
Jody Rice - Library Clerk
Jody provides essential front-line customer service and clerical support that keeps our library running smoothly. She is also the one who processes all of our new books—so chances are, if you check out a book from our shelves, Jody is the reason it’s ready and waiting for you!
Alejandra Mendez - Library Aide
Alejandra provides important behind-the-scenes and front-line support to keep the library running smoothly. She greets and assists patrons, checks books in and out, and helps keep our shelves neat and organized. She also prepares materials for circulation, assists with programs, and makes sure the library is a welcoming place for everyone. Alejandra has a wonderful creative talent, which she puts to good use around the library!
Sodapop Curtis - Library Dog Mascot
Sodapop was brought into the Library family in 2024. He brings a lot of joy, tail-wagging, and cuddles to the library. You can often see him at the library front desk. Don't be afraid to stop and take a selfie or give him a big hug!
Sodapop's favorites: Milk bones, pup cups, dressing up in costume, selfies, taking videos, and giving out warm hugs! Sodapop's favorite book is If You Give a Cat a Cupcake by Laura Numeroff. His best friend is Bluey, so of course, his favorite game is keepy-uppy!