If you’ve spent any time around Moore County’s libraries, chances are you’ve heard of Clara the Witch. With her oversized toes, unusual appearance, hilarious stories, and unforgettable personality, she’s been bringing smiles to children’s faces for generations.
But behind the witch’s costume is 78-year-old Clara Bernicken, a woman whose life has been filled with books, laughter, faith, love, and more than a few unexpected twists.
Clara began her 30-year career with the Moore County Library in 1976, driving the bookmobile. For approximately three years, she traveled throughout the county delivering books and bringing programs to schools and other locations before becoming a library supervisor.
Her storytelling career actually began by accident, thanks to a movie projector and a film in French.
“While visiting a retirement center, I discovered the movie I had ordered was entirely in French. Rather than disappoint the residents, I began sharing childhood memories and encouraging them to tell their own stories,” said Clara.
The response was incredible, and a storyteller was born.
Her famous witch character came later when a librarian at Highfalls Elementary School invited her to tell ghost stories and dress as a fellow witch. That single invitation eventually led to appearances throughout Moore County.
Today, Clara the Witch remains a beloved Halloween tradition at the Robbins Library.
Children recognize her even without the costume, sometimes identifying her simply by her voice.
Her costume is anything but ordinary. With swollen toes sticking out of her shoes and mysterious knots on her legs, Clara encourages children to interact with her character, often screaming dramatically when someone steps on her toes.
And there’s another unforgettable part of her story.
“In 2006, I lost a hand following a car accident. Rather than allowing tragedy to steal my humor, I incorporated it into my witch character,” said Clara. She often jokes with children that she keeps her missing hand in her handbag.
During rehabilitation, she also met Jim, who would eventually become her husband. The nurses at rehab thought they would be a perfect match and arranged their appointments to happen at the same time so they could meet.
Clara described that time in her life as, “lost a hand, found a man.”
The couple has now been married for 17 years. Clara is now retired, but she remains active with the Friends of the Moore County Library and Friends of the Robbins Library.
Her daughter, Kelly Bryson, even had a special book about Clara the Witch created as a birthday gift; a copy can be found at the Robbins Library.
Clara the Witch will appear at the Robbins Library on Tuesday, Oct. 27, from approximately 5–6 p.m., continuing a tradition she says might be nearing its final chapter. “I say it every year that it will be my last,” Clara said. “This appearance will be.”
For Clara, it’s never been about the costume. It’s about the children’s smiles, sharing stories, and spreading happiness.
“Just to laugh in a dark world is a wonderful thing,” Clara said. She spends every day living by the Bible, believing God has a plan for her: “Through everything, like losing my hand, God has a plan for it.”
If you have someone you would like to nominate for our Meet Moore People segment, email [email protected].
Contributed photos of Clara Bernicken.
Curtis Self | Reporter
Article by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Curtis Self. Curtis has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2019.
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