“Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one.” –– Neil Gaiman

Next week, patrons of the Poplarville Public Library will receive literary answers from new head librarian Eden Nitcher.
She replaces longtime librarian Cynthia Hornsby, who retired in March.
Nitcher is the daughter of the late James and Stephanie Boutwell Nitcher of Carriere. She was raised in both Carriere and Gulfport and is a 2009 graduate of Harrison Central High School.
She procured an associate’s degree from Pearl River Community College and a bachelor’s degree in English from William Carey University. In December 2014, Nitcher received her master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Southern Mississippi.
However, Nitcher said she initially wanted to pursue a career in the medical or law field, but a stint in the college library work-study program changed her mind.
“During the work-study program, I enjoyed the environment and asked the librarians what it took to become one,” Nitcher said.
Nitcher was searching for her next career move, when the opportunity arose in Poplarville, which brings her closer to her family.
Pearl River County Library System Director Carol Phares said she is “very happy to have Eden on board.”
“Mrs. Hornsby has left a big hole in Poplarville and she has big shoes to fill, but with her positive attitude and outgoing personality, she will building on Hornsby’s good deeds,” Phares said. “She will be successful at what she wants to do.”
Nitcher will also serve as assistant director of the library system, Phares said.
“Before, these two positions were separate, but it’s not an affordable option,” Phares said. “Eden is taking on two full-time roles.”
Nitcher said she plans to work on improving technology and the library’s connection to the community.
“I want to make it more of a resource center and increase residents’ utilization of the library,” Nitcher said.
In her new role, Nitcher will be responsible for choosing books for the collections, creating programs for children, teens and adults and general library upkeep along with employee supervision.
In addition, Phares said Nitcher will also be reaching out to community members through visits to public schools, homeschools and local businesses.
For Nitcher, a librarian is someone who loves information and ensuring the public has access to the information and resources they desire and need.
“Libraries are integral to a community,” she said. “They create an opportunity for a lifelong teaming across all economical spectrums. I want to create more communal awareness of our library.”
Nitcher will also join Poplarville Library Assistants Vicky Mitchell Bennett and Ronnie Rawls.
According to previous coverage, renovations to the Poplarville library were also completed this year, in order to meet ADA compliance.
In honor of Nitcher and in celebration of the completion of renovations, the Friends of the Poplarville Library will host an open house Wednesday, Aug. 19 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Poplarville Public Library is located at 202 W. Beers St. and is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact staff by phone at 601-795-8411.
For more information about the library system visit www.pearlriver.lib.ms.us and through Facebook at Pearl River County Library System.