By ERIN BOWLEY | July 22, 2026

Visiting the library is always a fun adventure, especially if you go to La Cygne’s public library. Local librarian, Janet Reynolds has distinguished herself in not just running the library but also by volunteering in her community. 

Reynolds was born in Linn County, between La Cygne and Mound City. She grew up on a farm with her sister, Ruth, and her two brothers, David and Larry. She spent her time reading, gardening, bird watching and outdoors; as she loved nature. 

She went to La Cygne Elementary School and then Prairie View Junior and Senior High School. As a junior in high school, the local library knew her family and was looking for a high school student to work there. So, she ended up applying and getting the job. She had already loved reading but this opened her up to a new world of possibilities. After high school, she attended Pittsburg State University and earned a library media certification as well as an education degree.

Reynolds started her teaching career at Fontana and spent 18 years there. During this time, she taught first, third and fourth grades. She said that she would’ve loved to be a second-grade teacher because that grade is an “in-between” year where students review topics; whereas first, third and fourth grades are always introducing topics. She then became a high school librarian at Prairie View and spent 16 years doing that. She also devoted time to curriculum testing and technology where she planned curriculums, managed state testing and attended meetings.

“This allowed me to collaborate with teachers, students and parents,” she explained.

Today, Reynolds dedicates most of her time to the La Cygne library. She is passionate about working with every student, no matter if the student attends public school or if they are homeschooled. She believes that every student should have access to the same opportunities to help them learn and grow.

She takes time for the young historians’ group at the city’s museum. Her sister, Ruth, is also a part of this. They teach kids to read, write, research history and speak in public. These are very necessary traits for students to learn. 

Aside from the library and young historians, she is on the historical society board, is the secretary for Marais des Cygne extension board, and a member of the Prairie View Education Foundation which provides scholarships, grants and activities for the school. She is the County Representative for the Southeast Library System, is involved with the Busy Workers 4-H Club and she used to be an officer for the Chamber of Commerce. 

Reynolds had two mentors who helped her through her career, including Jewell Smythe, who helped her stand up for the library, and Jean Allen, who works with the seniors and community.  

To sum up her life and her work, Reynolds said, “I’ve been blessed to be able to work at jobs that allowed me to enjoy and develop my passions of working with people and literacy.” 

She is an example of hard work, dedication and a love for her library and every child who steps into it.