Libraries: A Gateway to Learning

“As a teen volunteer, I was able to assist during the programs, help around the children’s area of the library, and form friendships with other volunteers and librarians. This volunteer work resulted in my becoming a part of the library’s Teen Advisory Board, a yearround committee of teens who meet and help plan programs for elementary-, middle-, and high-school students. Not only did I have the privilege of planning programs for the library, I also gave back by working some of the children’s events. My hope is this helped further their love of reading: the same way the library provided those services for the younger, highly impressionable version of me.” (excerpt)

I graduate in June as a life-long homeschooler and the youngest of four, and will start college in the fall. Throughout my high school years, I have enjoyed volunteering with drama classes at Gaston School of the Arts as well as helping at the local library—which I now work at part-time. In my free time, my interests vary from photography, painting, watching Marvel movies, reading and writing to practicing piano and ukulele, singing, dancing, and performing in musicals and plays regionally. My favorite roles include JoJo in “Seussical the Musical”, and most recently a Congregant in “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”, both performed as part of the Encore Theatre Company Youth Guild.

Since joining the library staff part-time, I have seen the impact of its resources on the community. An avid reader, I enjoy recommending books and helping patrons find the books they need, whether it’s for a school essay or summer reading fun. From the time I was young, I have been taught the importance of reading and the valuable asset libraries can be. Battling an autoimmune disease during my high school years has emphasized this even more. I am grateful to be a student ambassador this year, and so blessed to be representing one of my favorite places!