Of Endings and Beginnings

All good things may, one day, come to an end. Our long-time Events Coordinator, Claire McElroy, is moving on. Claire first came to Village Books and Paper Dreams in 1994 as a frontline salesperson and soon moved into the role as Assistant Bookkeeper. She left us to focus on her glass art, owning a business, and raising her family, returning to us as a bookseller in 2010. Since then, she’s served in a number of capacities and has contributed greatly every step of the way. Though there are too many to list here, we are extremely grateful for Claire’s many gifts and contributions since she took the role in 2016—including helping us to successfully navigate hosting events through the pandemic. We will miss her being here under our roof—both professionally and personally.

BUT, she’s not going far! Look for her in her new role as the Adult Programming Coordinator at Whatcom County Library System! Since we have a close partnership with WCLS—including working together on Whatcom READS—we look forward to continuing to work with her in her new position. We’re all pretty darned excited for her and extend our deepest gratitude and congratulations. She’ll continue hosting the Motherhood by the Book Book Group that she founded many years ago, so you’ll still see her here now and then. Claire says, “Village Books is my favorite place. I am taking so many wonderful memories with me and so many friendships.”

Please Welcome Our New Events Coordinator, Hanna Buehrer!

Hanna comes to us from Sunnyland Elementary where she’s taught and recently served as librarian. (As you can see, bookstores and libraries have more in common than just books!) Another midwest transplant, we’re excited to welcome Hanna’s energy and talent to Village Books and Paper Dreams. We appreciate everyone’s help and support as she ramps up on the many systems, community connections, and dynamic programming that we have to offer.

“I am thrilled to be joining the fantastic team at Village Books! This community is truly wonderful and I feel an immense privilege at being invited to come in and be a part of the special things that happen here. I look forward to helping continue the legacy of amazing events and experiences you have come to love, and I can’t wait to connect with you, readers!” -

Hanna Buehrer