Preface

A turbulent year

The year 2020 is the year that will go down in history as the coronavirus year and looking ahead, it appears we will also have to live with the reality of the virus in 2021. Last year was a year of ups and downs for the Kennemerwaard Public Library, establishing new ways to work together, and searching and identifying partnership possibilities with our residents, and with our new Artiance colleagues.

We were then struck down by the first lockdown measures in the middle of our reorganization in spring. This was an unfortunate timing of circumstances. On the one hand, we had to inform our staff what position they would hold after the reorganization, which was not always to their satisfaction, and on the other hand, branches had to close, and those same staff members were then busy trying to find ways to provide an alternative service. This was an extremely hectic and stressful period for everyone. Great resilience Our staff have shown remarkable resilience despite the difficult circumstances and have maintained their commitment to the various customer groups the library serves. At the same time, there was always a moment for a friendly virtual embrace for colleagues who were struggling.

Above all, 2020 was a year of perseverance, patience, solidarity, and team spirit. I’m privileged to be the director of this organization with these staff members and volunteers. Together we have been able to ignite “the spark to inspire” despite the restrictions and difficult circumstances. ABC Huis (ABC House) The new foundation, ABC Huis, was launched on 31 December 2020: the merger between Artiance Arts Centre and the Kennemerwaard Public Library is definite, and since 1 January 2021, the management team at ABC Huis supervises both the Artiance foundation and the Kennemerwaard Public Library. When I look at what we’ve been able to provide together for the residents in our districts, I see a promising future.

Erna Winters,

Director ABC Huis

Erna Winters