Maria Zumbahlen

The wonderful writer Jorge Luis Borges once wrote, ”I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.” Fortunately, libraries exist here on Earth, allowing us to step through the doors of that celestial realm in this life. For Maria Zumbahlen, a librarian extraordinaire in Jasper County, opening the library’s doors means ushering children into their own slice of paradise. However, librarianship was not always her calling.

Maria’s educational journey began with a pursuit of a degree in social work. It was her experience tutoring young children that steered her towards the field of education. She changed her major and spent a substantial period teaching various grade levels. Following her teaching career, she received an endorsement to become a library specialist. Today, she finds herself at the helm of a library, opening up endless worlds contained within books for her students.

Maria reflects on the pace of her workdays with enthusiasm: “I really like to see the younger kids. My day goes by so fast because I get to meet different kids, read to them, and help them find books that they enjoy or that pique their interest. I love to read myself, so it’s a perfect fit for me.” Through her transitions from social work to education and finally to librarianship, Maria has discovered her true vocation—a role that involves aiding others and fostering a sense of community.

“I see many children from church, people I know, and families I’ve grown up with. I witness their children, whom I’ve taught or now encounter in the library, grow and change over time. It allows me to really connect with the families and the community,” she shares. Jasper County and its students are fortunate to have Maria to recommend books, facilitate checkouts, and evolve alongside the families. Reading is critical, especially for students yearning to explore, if only through the pages of a book.

On the topic of literary journeys, Maria states, “I feel reading is vital because it expands children’s vocabularies and takes them on adventures to places they’ve never been. Here in Jasper County, many children lack opportunities to travel or visit new places. Reading transports them on these adventures, offering experiences they might not otherwise have.” Travel is not exclusive to those with plane tickets or chartered buses—it is equally accessible to those who visit a library, their passport to new destinations.

When considering what she might wish for if given the chance, Maria’s response is emblematic of her caring nature. “I’d wish for everyone to be healthy,” she says. This wish, emerging from her background as a social worker, teacher, and librarian, is emblematic of her life’s work—wishing well for those around her. It may not be the most common desire, much like books may not be at the forefront of media, but its sincerity and depth are undeniable.

Maria Zumbahlen may not have always envisioned herself as a custodian of paradise, but she now wields the keys. From narratives to verse to illustrated tales, she guides her community. She assists them in traveling, learning, and maintaining wellbeing. Because it’s not just the body that requires exercise and nutrition—the mind does too. As the saying goes, it’s a terrible thing to waste. Maria ensures that the minds in her care flourish, nourished by literature and attention. Reflecting on her past, Maria offers advice that echoes profoundly: “Be confident and don’t dwell on what others expect of you. Pursue what brings you joy.” Indeed, surrounded by a paradise of paper and print, Jasper County is fortunate to have Maria Zumbahlen leading explorations of this magnificent place.