Remembering JPL Teen Librarian, Beth Snow

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce Beth Snow, beloved Teen Services Librarian of Joplin Public Library, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2024 after a long battle with cancer.  

Known for her encouraging words, her joyful spirit, and her commitment to the Library and its patrons, Beth devoted her career to ensuring that every teen felt welcomed and supported by libraries. Beth spent over 20 years of her life working in libraries, eight of those at Joplin Public Library.  Her memory will live on in those that knew and loved her.

During an interview in 2022, she explained her passion for Teen Services, “The Teen Department offers a safe space, free of judgment for teens to grow, to explore, to deal, to connect, or to just “be”.  Building relationships is the foundation, the bulk of what happens here.  Teen Services can be as incredible, beautiful, heart-breaking, messy, and glorious as adolescence itself!”

Beth’s visitation will be Thursday, June 20, from 6:00-7:00 pm at Mason-Woodard Mortuary and Crematory.  Her funeral will be held Friday, June 21, at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church in Joplin.  Her full obituary may be viewed here.  

The library will be closed Friday, June 21, from 1:00-6:00 pm to allow staff to attend the funeral.  Webb City Public Library has graciously agreed to host the Children’s program, Bobby Norfolk Storyteller, scheduled for 2:00 pm on Friday.

Patrons are encouraged to visit the Library to sign a memorial card that will be shared with Beth’s family. Also, individuals may participate in a memory-sharing activity in the teen department as a tribute to Beth.