Meet our mascot: Bearton Stevenson!

Introducing Bearton Stevenson, our new library mascot!

Full Name: Bearton Stevenson

Nickname: Bert or Bertie

Birthday: Unknown, but he was born along the banks of Paint Creek, where he can often be found reading under a tree with a stack of library books.

Namesake: Bert is named after Burton Stevenson (1872-1962), who was the Chillicothe Public Library Director for 58 years.

Education: Bert has attended many local schools, but never as a formal student. He is a voracious reader and a lifelong learner. His favorite books are field guides—from mushrooms and insects to birds and reptiles. He has an insatiable curiosity about the world.

Character Traits: Bert is a quiet bear, but his enthusiasm for books and literacy always shines through. Even though he doesn’t express ideas out loud, he has been known to write a word or two about what he’s currently reading or learning. He always has a book nearby. Bert embodies the spirit of curiosity and the joy of discovery. 

Role at the Library: Bert's journey to becoming the library’s ambassador started when he attended his first Bookworm program. The topic was honeybees and what to do if you accidentally swallow one (you have to swallow a bird to catch it, of course, then a cat, then a dog…you know how it goes!). Library staff immediately recognized Bert’s connection to books and learning, and he was offered the role of Library Ambassador in the summer of 2024.

As ambassador, Bert's duties include:

• Observing an occasional storytime or program.
• Appearing at community events and parades—he especially loves chasing the Bee Mobile Library!
• Championing the library on social media and in printed materials

If you see Bert around at your library location, don’t forget to say hello and snap a photo with him. Tag us on Facebook or Instagram and we will share it!