Camp Darby librarians recognized for decades of service

Camp Darby librarians recognized for decades of service

CAMP DARBY, Italy – Camp Darby Librarians Debora Lomi and Susanna Martini began working at the Camp Darby Library one day apart, 35 years ago. Cinzia Siciliano joined them two years later. Together, the three have cared for the Camp Darby Library side-by-side through many changes and transitions.

The library was fully relocated in 2000, 2009 and again in 2019, when it was consolidated into the community center following the closure of North Darby. The collection had to be downsized by two thirds, an intense 18-month effort. When moving day finally arrived, the moving company ran into an issue and didn’t come. Fortunately, the librarians’ can-do attitude saved the day. “We had to be out of the building, so we loaded everything up into our personal vehicles and the MWR van and moved them ourselves,” said Lead Library Technician Debora Lomi.

In 2020, COVID brought new challenges, but the librarians pivoted, introducing virtual story times for Camp Darby children to learn and enjoy during the shutdown. This proved so effective, virtual story hours continue today. “We didn’t cut the programming,” Lomi said. “We improved it.”

One of the librarians’ biggest challenges came in 2015, when a major reduction in staff left them with only one full-time and two part-time positions. But the three persevered. “We still have the same motivation as when we started, despite all the changes and the reduction,” Lomi said.

For Lomi, Martini and Siciliano, being a librarian is more than a job. “Our mission is to support the Soldiers and their families, some here for the first time abroad, so far away from their families,” Lomi said. “I feel the need to support them not only for library duties but also for human reasons."

Patrons visit the library not just for books, movies and to use the computers, but for help with a variety of problems. The librarians routinely answer questions about everything from housing to travel, and often help people schedule personal appointments or communicate in Italian. The librarians are happy to help with these requests. “Information is our business,” Lomi said.

This is particularly important for the library’s youngest patrons. The librarians have set up partnerships with Livorno Elementary/Middle School and Child & Youth Services to develop a love of reading in all Camp Darby kids. “If you start when you’re little, that desire for reading and improving your knowledge will stay with you forever,” Lomi said. “It becomes a habit … that helps you know what’s happening around you but also to have your own world. When you read, you can forget everything else.”

IMCOM-Europe Director Tommy Mize recently awarded Lomi, Martini and Siciliano Commander’s Coins in recognition of their many years of service and dedication.