RIP library gerbil Ramona Nibbles

Our sweet little gerbil passed away yesterday. She enjoyed life to the end and died peacefully curled up in her nest. Thanks to all of you who took an interest in Ramona, providing her with tubes to chew on and visiting her. Ramona has been a wonderful part of the library.

“She brought all ages together in a really sweet way and she will be missed,” stated Heather McCammond-Watts, Manager of Children’s Services. “We will have a writing station/remembrance area in the children’s area for people to write notes of condolence if they wish.”

For the younger kids, we put up a sign saying she went to “Australia,” and we'll let the parents explain however they'd like. For the older kids and adults, we'll let them know that she lived a long and happy life for a gerbil, and she brought lots of happy moments to Oak Park Public Library.

Ramona Nibbles joined us in January 2010 and quickly became a superstar. Kids of all ages had lots of questions and affection for Ramona and she made the service desk even more approachable.

One Mom commented, “Ramona is more famous than the books!” Having Ramona’s cage at the service desk in the children’s area of the Main Library, made for some fun moments:

• Dad: “Ramona’s a gerbil.” Kid: “A German?” Dad: “No, a GERBIL.”
• 2-year-old about Ramona in her wheel: “She’s rolling! She’s all roll! She’s getting rolled by her rolling machine!!”
• Kid: “Daddy, what’s the gerbil’s name?” Dad (in all seriousness): “Ramen Noodles.”
• Kid: “If she gets out will she run away and take all the books?”

The library will be getting a new furry friend soon. We’re sure our young visitors will learn to love the new library pet, too.