The City of Chandler Council meeting on February 3, 2025, celebrated the remarkable career of Tara England, who has dedicated 25 years to the Chandler Public Library's volunteer program. During the meeting, council members highlighted Tara's significant contributions, noting that under her leadership, adult and teen volunteers have collectively provided nearly 375,000 hours of service, valued at approximately $12 million.

Tara began her journey with the library in January 1999, shortly after the Y2K celebrations. Over the years, she has played a crucial role in various literacy initiatives, including programs that assist residents in learning English and providing reading support to young children. As the outreach coordinator, she has implemented several programs, such as "Books for Babies" and "If I Can Read, I Can Do Anything," which have reached students in the Gila River Indian community.

In her current role, Tara continues to foster partnerships with organizations like the Friends of the Chandler Public Library, enhancing community engagement and support for literacy services. The council expressed gratitude for her exceptional service and commitment to public education and literacy.

The meeting underscored the importance of volunteerism in the community and recognized Tara's lasting impact on the library and its patrons. As the council moves forward, they aim to continue supporting initiatives that promote literacy and community involvement.