Smart Start Library Lab
Occurrence: Weekly
Day and Time: Wednesday 3:00pm-5:00pm
Description: We will have homework helpers available each week in the Children's Area for homework assistance. Run by a fantastic team of high school volunteers, our homework helpers are here to support you with your homework and school assignments in an enjoyable and non-judgmental atmosphere. (Peck, 2014) These programs not only help our community, but they also inspire our young learners by demonstrating that academic success is within reach.
These volunteers will also be trained on navigating the online homework help the library offers as well, so if students have questions outside of lab hours they can still reach a live tutor.
This is a drop in program. No registration is required. Attendees can drop in anytime during lab hours to get homework help.
Staffing: 1 librarian to recruit and train volunteers to run the program. Teens in our community have a high school requirement of community service hours. This program could assist them in reaching their hours, as well as impacting the youth they will tutor.
Budget: $500 to have a year end party for all of the teen volunteers.
Lego Legends Club
Occurrence: Monthly
Day and Time: 1st Friday of the month 3:30pm-5:00pm
Description: Join us for an exciting LEGO Builders Club session at the library! Let your imagination soar as you build, create, and explore with LEGO bricks. Our LEGO program offers a fun and interactive environment where kids can unleash their creativity and develop essential skills through hands-on building activities. (Baker, 2017)
Registration is limited to the first 30 registrants, but there will be a wait list for those interested once registration is full.
Staffing: 1 librarian to oversee the program.
Budget: $500 initial purchase of Lego. $200 yearly to maintain the Lego collection.
Story Seekers Society
Occurrence: Monthly
Day and Time: 3rd Friday of the month 3:30pm-5:00pm
Description: Looking for great books?! (Cole, 2007) Each month our Story Seekers Society book club will meet to discuss books, play games, and have snacks together. Our Story Seekers Society will be open to school aged kids 3rd-5th grade and will be a great place to make new friends and discuss our book club book. Each month the library will have several copies of the chosen book available for checkout. Society members will vote on the book they want to read the next month.
Registration is available online or in-person. Registration is limited to the first 15 registrants, but there will be a wait list for those interested once registration is full.
Virtual Option: There will be a virtual option for participants that can't make it in person, or if registration is full. This will be held the 3rd Saturday of the month from 4:00pm-4:30pm. The zoom session will only cover the discussion portion of the event.
Staffing: 1 library staff member to oversee and guide the program.
Budget: $600 annually for the purchase snacks and some art supplies when needed.
Creative Chaos Craft Club
Occurrence: Weekly
Day and Time: Saturday 2:00pm-3:00pm
Description: Each month, we'll select a craft to focus on, dedicating time to learning and honing our skills throughout the month. (Baker, 2017) Previous crafts have included knitting, origami, jewelry making, scrapbooking, and wood carving. The library will supply all necessary materials, so just bring yourself and your creativity. If you're a local crafter interested in sharing your expertise with our group, please reach out to us via email or in person!
Registration is available online or in-person. Registration is limited to the first 30 registrants, but there will be a wait list for those interested once registration is full.
Staffing: 1 library staff member to oversee and assist with the program.
Budget: $100 for the purchase of art and craft supplies monthly. The library will also utilize the craft supplies they have on hand.
References
Baker, R.L. (2017). Creating literacy-based programs for children: Lesson plans and printable resources for K-5. ALA Editions.
Cole, S. (2007). Booktalks that knock 'em dead. Teacher Librarian, 35(1), 41+. https://link-gale-com.libaccess.sjlibrary.org/apps/doc/A170580793/AONE?u=csusj&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=0641aae6
Peck, P. (2014). Crash Course in Children’s Services (Second ed.). ABC-CLIO, LLC