Beth and Jess VanderStek were honored with the Baxter County Library Foundation’s 2026 Heart of the Library Award on Thursday, October 22, during the foundation’s annual ceremony at the Donald W. Reynolds Library. This award, given annually since 2018, celebrates individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to supporting the library, according to Library Director Kim Crow Sheaner.
The VanderSteks’ relationship with the library spans decades, beginning in 1999 when Beth worked alongside the newly founded Library Foundation’s first board of trustees to open its inaugural bank account. Jess contributed to early efforts as well, including mobilizing volunteers in 2008 to clear the hill where the current library now stands.
Beth, a former accountant with experience in the oil and gas industry, has been deeply involved with the foundation over the years. She served as its first treasurer until 2013 and returned to the role in 2019. She has held numerous positions, including serving on the investment, audit, fundraising, and library advisory committees. Reflecting on the library’s growth, she said, "Deborah [Knox, a fellow volunteer] donated $100 and started the bank account. And look where we’ve come. It’s amazing. Who would have dreamed it?"
The couple returned to Mountain Home from Texas after Jess retired in 2006 from a career in construction and real estate. Together, they embraced volunteer efforts, helping organize fundraising events like pub nights and auctions, to support the library. Jess credited his wife for leading the way but noted his enthusiasm for contributing wherever possible.
One of Beth’s significant achievements was her role in securing a $10 million Donald W. Reynolds Foundation grant for the library’s construction. The Baxter County Library Foundation raised $2 million locally to match the grant, despite launching the campaign during the 2008 economic downturn. "Nobody’s portfolios were doing any good," Beth said. "Despite that, people really stepped up, and we were able to meet our goals."
The couple also supported the Library Hill Trail campaign with a $50,000 donation last year—the largest individual contribution—helping bring the initiative to its fundraising goal of $250,000. The walking and biking trail around the library will also benefit from a $456,000 matching grant from the Arkansas Department of Transportation.
Crow Sheaner described the VanderSteks as "incredible library champions," emphasizing their involvement in hosting events like the Mother’s Day Pinwheel Trail, library picnics, and mini-golf. "They are always the first to arrive and the last to leave," she said, adding that their commitment inspires others.
Other awards presented during the ceremony included the Distinguished Service Award to Sonny Sharp and the Excellence in Community Engagement Award to Dawn and Brad Schultz of Jack’s Package Store. For Beth and Jess VanderStek, who view the library as a community hub, their recognition underscores their passion for creating a vibrant, welcoming space for Mountain Home residents.
"Sometimes I come in here and see all the groups together, vibrant and going on, and I think, where did they go before?" Beth said. "Jess and I are very honored to get this award, and we’re just grateful to be part of the library that we love."