Have you ever wondered who that petite woman is helping in the library? Or maybe you have seen her picking up the bits of trash in the hallways? It's Sister Carmelita Edney, a Servant of Mary who volunteers her time in Marian's library.
Sr. Carmelita was born on Nov. 12, 1908 in Benson, which at that time was separate from Omaha. She was the oldest of three girls and two boys. As a child Sr. Carmelita had an early interest in reading that would continue throughout her life. "My mothe r was a good reader. She would take us to the library on 19th and Harney. That's how I got interested in books, " she said.
Sr. Carmelita started school at Cathedral and in 5th grade transferred to Holy Name. In 1926 she graduated from Holy Name High School and the next fall she entered the convent. "I entered the convent so I could spend my life serving God," she said.
Sr. Carmelita taught English, French, and Latin for 31 years before working in Marian's library. She said she enjoys working with Marian students. "Marian's students are very friendly. We have such beautiful surroundings here. I'm thankful to be in s uch beautiful surroundings," she said.
When she's not helping in Marian's library, Sr. Carmelita is usually gardening or making candy. Or you might find her in her favorite spot, the convent chapel. Sr. Carmelita was recently honored by Holy Name when they named their library after her, The Edney Reading Center.
Sr. Carmelita gives her time and energy to serve the Marian community. Serving others is part of her life she said. "I want to love everybody and help others as much as I can."