On May 31, friends, patrons, and library trustees gathered to celebrate the career of former Head Librarian Judie Kleven.

For 26 years, Kleven has worked at the Elizabeth Taber Library where she oversaw the library’s transition into the digital age. Kleven announced her retirement this winter.

Many residents attended the open house to bid farewell at the afternoon event. Marion Board of Selectman Chair Jody Dickerson presented Kleven with a certificate of appreciation on behalf of the board.

Children attended too, and Kleven received a heartfelt farewell from a young patron. Six-year-old Henry Richins, of Marion, handed Kleven a homemade card, for which he received a hug from her in return.

In her retirement, Kleven said she would like to become more involved with her work with St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Marion, foster care for cats, and visits with the elderly.

Elisabeth O’Neil, former youth and community outreach librarian at Boston Public Library, started her first day as the new head librarian this Monday.