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Library employee Bärbel Schmidt receives honorary certificate from the Büchner city of Riedstadt
Before the sold-out reading by Darmstadt crime author Michael Kibler in the council chamber of the Riedstadt town hall, the audience experienced a special surprise: Long-time volunteer library employee Bärbel Schmidt was awarded the honorary certificate of the Büchner city of Riedstadt for her diverse commitment.
Cultural Affairs Director Marco Hardy used the opening of the evening to thank the volunteers of the city library – especially those who regularly staff the libraries in the city's districts and often know exactly what kind of books their patrons are looking for. He then surprised one of these "very special book lovers" by inviting her onto the stage: Bärbel Schmidt.
For ten years, Schmidt has supported the library service in Leeheim and has also worked in several other district libraries. She knows the reading preferences of many users, gives suitable recommendations, and, if needed, delivers books to the doorsteps of elderly or sick people. For this dedication, First City Councillor Ottmar Eberling – representing Mayor Marcus Kretschmann – awarded her the honorary certificate of the town of Riedstadt.
Afterwards, Michael Kibler greeted his audience in good spirits before reading from his new crime novel, "Bunkermädchen" (Bunker Girl). The reading quickly turned into a lively reunion with many longtime fans of his detective, Horndeich. Kibler offered humorous insights into the plot, characters, and writing process, delighting the audience with anecdotes and readings interspersed throughout, which repeatedly drew applause.
In the discussion following the reading, the author spoke about his sources of inspiration. Often it is a striking detail or a distinctive place that sparks his stories – in the case of "Bunker Girl", the two pointed bunkers on the grounds of the former "Knell" railway repair works in Darmstadt.
(Riedstadt - Red/PSR)
Featured image: Crime author Michael Kibler during his reading at Riedstadt Town Hall. Photo: City of Riedstadt
