Zelienople library director Jan Lawrence (left) receives a gift from "avid reader" Sophie Stumm, 13. Lawrence is retiring Thursday after serving the library for 28 years, 27 of those as director.

ZELIENOPLE - A familiar face will retire after today.

Jan Lawrence, who has served the Zelienople Area Public Library for 28 years, 27 of those as director, will celebrate her golden years in retirement.

"When you think now, people don't stay at jobs as long," Lawrence said. "But it went by fast, I think."

Community members and library volunteers celebrated Wednesday with a retirement celebration for Lawrence. She was given a framed picture of the library and a gift card from the library's board of directors. She was also given assorted gifts from library patrons.

Lawrence will be replaced by Maggie Boylan, who has previously served as an academic librarian.

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