In a heartfelt recognition of a lifetime dedicated to libraries, the City of Mount Pleasant officially named the Mount Pleasant Public Children’s Library in honor of Paula Fern Rose.
The unveiling ceremony of the "Paula Fern Rose Children’s Library" took place on January 30, with the Rose family, friends, City Council members, and staff in attendance.
Mayor Pro Tem Tim Dale expressed gratitude, stating, "The library is a special place in our community, and we extend our deepest gratitude to all those who make it possible, including Paula and Bill Rose. Paula has spent the majority of her life in dedicated service to libraries and the patrons they serve, including the citizens of Mount Pleasant."
Paula Fern Rose's journey as a librarian and volunteer spanned over 60 years, beginning when she graduated from East Texas State University in 1962 with a Bachelor’s degree in Library Science. She later earned a Master of Library Science degree.
Her career started with the United States Air Force as a civilian librarian at Beale Air Force Base in California, where she met and married Bill Rose, an airman stationed at Beale.
After their Air Force service, the Roses returned to Texas, and Paula accepted a position at the Highland Park Library. Bill Rose pursued education on the GI Bill, and after his graduation, they returned to East Texas. Paula became the first-ever librarian of the Pittsburg-Camp County Library.
Mrs. Rose served as Head Librarian until she transitioned to the Mount Pleasant ISD, contributing to school libraries for numerous years. After her son, Dr. Kevin Rose, became independent, she returned to lead the Pittsburg-Camp County Library as Head Librarian.
Having dedicated many years to library service, Mrs. Rose concluded her career at the Mount Pleasant Library, where she retired, leaving an indelible mark on the community she served for decades.
