Longtime Evangeline Parish Library Leader Retires

Suzy Lemoine celebrated for 26 years of service at the library's main branch

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Suzy Lemoine, who served as a member of the Friends of the Library, outreach coordinator, and co-executive director over her 26-year career at the Evangeline Parish Library's main branch, retired on February 4th. Lemoine was celebrated by friends, coworkers, and family, and thanked everyone for their support over the years, noting the library's growth and its importance as a community resource.

Why it matters

Lemoine's retirement marks the end of an era for the Evangeline Parish Library, which has relied on her dedication and leadership for over a quarter-century. Her departure highlights the vital role that public libraries play in rural communities like Ville Platte, Chataignier, Basile, Pine Prairie, and Turkey Creek, providing access to information, resources, and a sense of community.

The details

Suzy Lemoine began her career at the Evangeline Parish Library as a member of the Friends of the Library before taking on roles as outreach coordinator and co-executive director. During her 26-year tenure, she witnessed the library's growth and evolution, describing it as a "little business suite" that serves the diverse needs of the surrounding rural communities.

  • Suzy Lemoine retired from the Evangeline Parish Library on February 4, 2026.
  • Lemoine began her career at the library as a member of the Friends of the Library prior to taking on leadership roles.

The players

Suzy Lemoine

A 26-year veteran of the Evangeline Parish Library, serving in roles such as Friends of the Library member, outreach coordinator, and co-executive director.

Evangeline Parish Library

The main branch of the public library system serving the rural communities of Ville Platte, Chataignier, Basile, Pine Prairie, and Turkey Creek.

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What they’re saying

“The library is growing, and it's such a gift to have a place of freedom to read what you want to read, to see what you want to see and take responsibility for it, and to have a business. We have like a little business suite.”

— Suzy Lemoine, Retiring Co-Executive Director (evangelinetoday.com)

“Don't ever let the libraries go away because I still call it my happy place.”

— Suzy Lemoine, Retiring Co-Executive Director (evangelinetoday.com)

What’s next

The Evangeline Parish Library board will begin the search for a new co-executive director to fill Suzy Lemoine's role and continue the library's mission of serving the local community.

The takeaway

Suzy Lemoine's retirement from the Evangeline Parish Library after 26 years of dedicated service highlights the vital importance of public libraries, especially in rural areas, as hubs of information, resources, and community. Her legacy will continue to inspire the library's ongoing efforts to meet the diverse needs of residents across the parish.