Babe Nash: Many of the programs at Petit Branch Library in Syracuse are meant for more than just reading. Branch Manager, Carol Johnson wants to create a welcoming space.
Carol Johnson: So part of what we’re trying to do is really build community. Where neighbors can interact with neighbors and meet people and also possibly learn something new.
Babe Nash: One of these programs is the revamped adult summer reading program created by library assistant Emily Coleman. It not only encourages adults to read but also to learn more about the library itself. And this program has been expanding the community.
Emily Coleman: Like people come in and don’t know we’re doing it and they see the sign on the display and they’re like ‘oh, this sounds fun!’ and they pick up all the information about it so it might bring people back.
Babe Nash: As libraries work to expand their services, they’re hoping communities will grow with them.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News)—The Petit Branch Library has a new way to engage and bring in members of its community – an adult summer reading program.
Petit Library assistant Emily Coleman came up with this adult program last summer. This year, the program not only rewards the members for reading with bi-weekly raffles but also offers library adventure bingo and a library scavenger hunt.
“I tried to broaden it,” Coleman said. “It encourages people to spend time in the library.”
The Petit Branch offers other adult programing including outdoor music performances, health workshops and art groups.
Carol Johnson, the Branch Manager at Petit Library said these programs are “To help people learn new things, to meet neighbors and sometimes just to have fun.”
Local libraries, like the Petit Branch, are working to create welcoming environments and community to rely on.
