sherry markrow

After 19 years of dedicated service to our Portola Valley Library, Sherry Markrow announced her retirement plans in the sprong of 2020. She will, however, return to PV for meetings of her beloved Nonfiction Book Club, which she founded 16 years ago, and will become available in future months for potential substitute assignments at various San Mateo County Libraries, including our own.

Sherry’s gentle smile and patient, soft-spoken manner made her a natural for greeting and aiding library visitors. Sherry appreciates the sense of community she found in Portola Valley, and had a genuine desire to get to know people in our community and make a positive difference in their lives. Sherry has become a friend as well as a library staff member. During her tenure, Sherry initiated and brought to life many memorable adult programs, including: The Mystery Panel, which presented local authors of mystery novels; Road Scholar Programs, on travel; monthly family-oriented movies; and a documentary series featuring local filmmakers.

In looking back at her long years of service, Sherry is particularly proud of the special adult programs featuring local Portola Valley residents that she was able to incorporate into program offerings. Sherry said, “I hope that will continue.” She has witnessed phenomenal changes in libraries and marvels how expansive library resources and services have become. She also expressed her appreciation for her coworkers: “We have a good team here and we help each other.” As Sherry retires, her friendships and contributions to our library community live on. We wish her well as she receives the best gifts of retirement—more time for hobbies and personal interests, which include two life-long quests of reading and learning, and perhaps some travel.

Congratulations, Sherry, and enjoy your retirement. “The story comes alive, when we look inside; A new adventure there in your life . . . .It's just beginning. . . . Reach out and find your happily ever after.”

- Songwriters: Melissa Peirce / Andy Dodd / Adam M. Watts; Happily Ever After
© Walt Disney Music Company, Wonderland Music Co. Inc.