The Donald W. Reynolds Library serving Baxter County honored three individuals and couples for their vital contributions to the library and its foundation during the annual Heart of the Library Awards on Thursday evening.
Library Director Kim Crow Sheaner explained that the event, which began in 2018, celebrates donors and supporters who enable the library to provide educational programs and services to the community. Sheaner noted the significant role community funding plays in sustaining the library: a one-mill Baxter County property tax contributes approximately 60 to 61% of the library’s operating revenue, while in 2025, the Library Foundation provided about 27%.
The Excellence in Community Engagement Award was presented to Dawn and Brad Schultz, owners of Jack’s Package Store. Sheaner highlighted the couple’s longstanding support, which began with their sponsorship of the library’s former pub night event. Even after the event ended during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Schultzes continued their involvement by donating funds and assisting with library fundraising initiatives.
The Distinguished Service Award went to Sonny Sharp, an early member of the Library Foundation Board of Trustees. Sheaner credited Sharp for his instrumental role in the planning and development of the library facility, as well as his efforts to help secure a grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, which was key to the library’s growth and development.
Beth and Jess Vander Stek received the Heart of the Library Award. Beth Vander Stek, a founding member of the foundation board, also served as its treasurer for many years. Sheaner recognized the couple’s ongoing support for the library and commended their continued efforts to benefit its programs and services.
Sheaner remarked that the awards highlight the deep commitment from individuals whose efforts contribute to the library’s mission and reflect the community’s vital role in sustaining its success.