The director of the city's public library system has announced that she will begin her well-earned retirement in June, after 30 years with the library and 11 as its head. Her most obvious legacy is the striking downtown Main Library, which opened in 2003 and was named 2006 Library of the Year by Library Journal.

That publication fittingly referred to the Main Library as "Where democracy happens," not only filled with light but downright enlightened.

So, of course, it began in that most democratic of ways, with a referendum.

Tessman had only been at the library's helm for a couple of years when she persuaded 68 percent of the electorate to approve an $84 million bond issue that built the new Main Library and made other improvements to the system.

The library system, though, is much more than its main building. Not only does the system maintain five other branches around the city, each with its own character and services, the Main Library welcomes a lively and varied parade of activities, lectures, performances, meetings and festivals.

From midnight Harry Potter book release parties to the Dewey Lecture Series, where today's foremost poets and journalists are introduced by an enthusiastic Tessman. From jammie-clad children's story hours to Hindu and Muslim holidays, this is one library where no one is ever heard to hiss "Ssssssh!"

Being a librarian makes Tessman a book person. Being a one-time aspiring journalist who began in public relations makes her someone who has never been put off by all the other forms of communication that have entered the marketplace and are welcomed at the library.

Videos to check out and high-speed Internet terminals to use at one's leisure. Wireless Internet connections for the laptop-and-latte crowd. Two cafes and small shops that sell flowers, art and comic books. The elfin Tessman and her assistant, Chip Ward, who is also retiring soon, have created a downright enchanted place.

Before she goes, this director's name needs to be etched in marble somewhere.

The Nancy Tessman Auditorium at the Main Library has a nice ring to it.