AFTER more than 40 years of helping keen readers and telling people to keep quiet, Jennifer Moutrey will soon be stamping her last book.

The senior library assistant for Darlington Borough Council is retiring next month after working across five decades.

Her final working day is December 31, and, although she is looking forward to spending more time with her family, she says she will miss the job that has been more rewarding than people give it credit for.

Mrs Moutrey said: "It is often said that people working in libraries just stamp books all day. I cannot tell you how far from reality that is. I have had such a varied and interesting career.

"It has been a job for life, as I began working with the library service in Darlington in 1964. I did have a break for approximately seven months, but bounced back and have been in the post for more than 40 years.

"I have loved my job and in particular, working with people and doing my part in encouraging and sharing the enjoyment of reading and knowledge. I will dearly miss my library colleagues and the library users, who have become part of my life.

"I am, however, looking forward to having sometime for myself, my husband and my family."

Lee Vasey, Darlington council's cabinet member for leisure services, said: "Jennifer has given 40 years of service to the council and she has done a marvellous job in the library.

"She will be missed by the public and her colleagues and we wish her all the best for a happy retirement."