Moe Ibarra, recently retired from Way Public Library, will serve as grand marshal for the Home for the Holidays parade December 5.

“She’s the perfect choice,” said parade organizer Rick Ruffner.

During her years at the library’s circulation desk, Ms. Ibarra earned a reputation as the consummate customer service professional.

“Her passion for serving was apparent from the moment a patron walked through the doors, as she always looked up to offer a smile and friendly welcome,” said Rose Mills, former public relations specialist for the library. “She had an astonishing innate ability to connect with patrons. Her knack for recalling names was legendary, but in addition, she was an attentive listener, remembering the reading preferences, movie-watching habits, hobbies, likes and dislikes, challenges, hopes and dreams of those she helped.”

In an open letter to the staff on the day of Ms. Ibarra’s departure, library director Janel Haas referred to her as a “community icon” and “master at customer service.”

Ms. Ibarra said she learned something new every day and was always surrounded by smart people. It was fun for her to see children at the library, grow up and then come back to the library with their own kids.

When asked recently what she hopes will never change about libraries, she thought for a moment and said, “I hope they never become too automated. The physical inter-actions and personal connections made between staff members and patrons are way too important. I would hate to see that go.”

Mayor Tom Mackin issued a proclamation declaring Friday, August 13, to be “Ofelia (Moe) Ibarra Day” in the City of Perrysburg.

The parade, sponsored by Taylor Automotive Family, O~Deer Diner and Welch Publishing, will include the Perrysburg High School cross country team, this year’s state champions after competing in the OHSAA meet on November 6.

And, there will be free treats from O~Deer Diner, Skotynsky, Perrysburgers, Poppin’Georges, The Bard’s Coffee, Welch Publishing and Swig Restaurant.

There also will be strolling carollers, high school bands to beat the band, a horse and carriage, Johnny Rodriguez singing in the gazebo at the Commodore Building, free treats, Santa letters and a mailbox in front of O~Deer Diner, crafts and more.

The activities will run from noon to 2 p.m., followed by the parade.

Those who would like to be in the parade may fill out the sign-up form on page 11. The deadline is Wednesday, December 1.