Director, Denise Nanke
Denise’s love for books and learning has been a constant throughout her life. With an endless curiosity and a desire to keep growing, she’s always seeking out new information. In 2019, she and her husband experienced the enchanting beauty of St. Maries, and from the moment they arrived, they knew it was meant to be home. The move fulfilled a long-held dream to live amidst nature’s wild beauty.
Originally from the East Coast, Denise’s early years were spent exploring the forests of New Hampshire before her family moved to Oregon during her teenage years. It was there, in a century-old Craftsman home, that she and her husband raised their son and built their lives over the next 30-plus years.
Denise’s professional life is as varied and rich as her personal one, with experience in business administration, graphic design, communications, and marketing. She has applied her talents across advocacy work, public sector education, and commercial broadcasting. A firm believer in the importance of libraries, especially in small communities, Denise is deeply committed to ensuring they serve as welcoming, vibrant spaces that inspire and engage all who visit.
Teri Wood, Head Librarian
Born and raised in Eugene, OR (hippy central), Teri moved to the mountains of Idaho in 2015 for the same reason most people do, the quiet and beauty. Having seen a bit of the world (Netherlands, Italy, Australia, Mexico, Canada and most of the states), she still believes the inland northwest is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Teri will read almost anything in the dystopian genre, but also appreciates good biographies, mysteries and dabbles in military fiction once in a while. One of her all-time favorite books that she reads every year is This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti. More than just a reader, Teri loves good comedy movies (think Marky Mark and Will Ferrell), all kinds of music (from Shania Twain to Eminem), messy baking and everything Christmas.
Teri earned her BA in Communications with a focus on research and writing from Portland State University. Her greatest desire as the head librarian is to engage with her community and serve them in whatever way she can. As this area continues to grow, Teri truly enjoys meeting new families and making them feel a part of the community.
By the way, Teri’s the one without the beard.
Melissa Allman
Kristin Frank
John E. Smith – IT/3D Printing/General Duties and Circ. John holds an Information Technology Certificate, an AS in social work and a BS in business administration. He is tech support for the library along with general library duties. His desire is to maintain and improve the quality of life in his community through education, promotion of technology, and food security.