Paula Wiggins is a transplant.

She moved with her husband from big city Dothan to rural Roeton in Coffee County to be nearer family. Wiggins loves country life. She loves the peace and quiet of it. She loves sitting on her back porch and watching the sun set each late afternoon.

Roeton is a perfect place for one who is an avid reader and a writer.

But there is another side of Wiggins, a side that loves meeting people. She likes to participate in interesting and enlightening conversations. She loves hearing a good story and likes to tell one.

So, being new, it was natural for Wiggins to seek out local libraries. She went in search of books that she had not read and in hopes of finding volunteer opportunities.

Wiggins found exactly what she was looking for and hoping for at the Troy Public Library – books of personal interest and an opportunity to volunteer at the Troy Public Library’s Book Nook.

“I met Iris Byrd, a volunteer at the Book Nook. She said volunteers were needed and volunteering at the Book Nook would be something I would enjoy,” Wiggins said. “I was not just interested; I was anxious to volunteer.”

Wiggins volunteers at the TPL Book Nook half days and all day when needed. She likes being surrounded by books and visiting with people who also enjoy reading.

“I was surprised how many people visit the Book Nook and that there is such a variety of ages and interests,” she said. “Teachers, students and young kids visit the Book Nook and community people from all walks of life, including a large number of truck drivers. Most of the truck drivers are looking for books on tape to play while they are driving.”

For Wiggins, the wide range of visitors to the Book Nook gives her the opportunity to meet and get to know people from all across the area.

“I look forward to coming to the Book Nook to see the familiar faces and meet new people,” she said.

The Book Nook is a very busy place at times and quiet at others.

During those quiet times, Wiggins spruces up the nook and takes care of business. Then, she will read.

“I am an avid reader,” she said. “There’s nothing like holding a book in your hand and being absorbed in a story.”

Wiggins said she prefers historical fiction and fantasy. She is working on a fantasy book and has written historical fiction but has not attempted to have any of her work published.

“I love reading and writing,” she said. “After my quiet time in the morning, I write. And, I write in longhand. I can express myself better that way than on a computer.”

For Paula Wiggins, being a Book Nook volunteer is a perfect fit. She is surrounded by books and enjoys the company of those who, like her, enjoy reading.”

Wiggins said being a volunteer is rewarding in many ways.

“I would encourage those who have leisure time to be a volunteer at the Book Nook,” she said. “We need volunteers and I’m sure there are other places and organizations that would welcome volunteers. It’s a wonderful and rewarding way to be involved in the community.”