MILFORD, Del. - After 44 years working in the Milford Public Library, with 21 of those years as director, Kay Hudson has decided to retire just in time for her 75th birthday. On April 30th, she will be stepping down to spend more time with her family.
Hudson began her career in 1977 at the original Milford Library on 214 S Walnut Street, before they moved to the Riverfront location in the 90s.
“My children were 8 and 12, I had spent my time being home with them, and they were at an age where I thought I could go and get a part time job. The job came up at the library and I went to the library I walked in and the director then was Alice Bauer and she came over and we introduce each other and she said you are the one. I am hiring you,” said Hudson.
Hudson's coworkers recalled special moments they shared with her.
“I was taking care of my mom in the last few years of her life and Kay was also taking care of her mom, so we used to share a lot and talk about the things that were going on,” said Kathy Trombello, Library Assistant.
Some coworkers were surprised at the news, “I drew in my breath and I thought oh my goodness what are we going to do because this woman who built this library knows everything about it,” said Vicki Erickson, Administrative Manager.
Hudson explored scrapbooks that hold the history of Milford Library, and discussed events she started like the 9/11 Patriotic Remembrance at the library.
Hudson says working at the library wasn't just about the books, but the community. She shared a story of a young boy who she developed a friendship with, who eventually got into trouble as he grew older, but would still stop by and give her hugs from time to time
“We were walking down the street before COVID. We were coming back from City Hall, Ella and I, and this car stopped about a half a block away and a 6 foot something guy jumps out and starts running ‘Miss Kay! Miss Kay! I just have to stop and give you a hug!’ and that means so much to me.
The new library director, Ella Wilkerson, has been working with Hudson before she takes over in April.
“My grandfather was the mayor of Milford when I was a little girl, and he did a lot for Milford and I feel like I'm continuing his legacy, or I have continued his legacy,” Hudson smiled.
She says family is the most important thing in her life, but the library is right behind it. Hudson says she can't let go of the library altogether, so she will still be around if the new director needs a helping hand.