by Jess Shelleman
The Library offers books, of course, along with movies, music, magazines, audiobooks, puzzles, games, and tools – those last three are from our Library of Things. We also help people with printing and faxing, and help them troubleshoot and navigate computers and smartphones. We provide high-speed internet access, both through our public computers and with our WiFi. We have study rooms and meeting rooms to utilize, dozens of e-resources available, and present programs on seemingly endless topics.
These are only a few of the many, many tangible services available to you through your local library, and can be found listed on our website or any general list of library services. But there’s one thing that you won’t find on any list or our website, even though I’ve seen it many times over the years – finding friendship and community.
Here’s a little-known fact: library storytimes are just as important for the grownups as they are for the kids. Storytime is great for supporting early literacy skills and brain development in the little ones, and provides an opportunity for learning socialization skills. And, while the kids are socializing, the parents also have a chance to socialize with each other and have conversations with other adults. Not only that, but you find people who are also raising little ones, going through some of the same things you are.
I’ve seen many of these storytime friendships grow and continue for years. One particular group of parents, and their kiddos (now nearly teenagers), first met each other in a baby storytime I ran at a previous library, and formed a bond that has lasted over a decade. It’s amazing to see the friendships between the parents and between the kids that have lasted.
Storytime isn’t the only place I’ve seen friendship and community develop. At Littlestown Library, we have a monthly Craft-Tea Afternoon program for adults, and we often have some of the same people attend month after month. We try to keep the crafts fun and simple, which allows for attendees to have conversations while creating something fun. It’s become a place of community for people to gather every month.
Surprisingly enough, our virtual programs have become places of community. In 2020, we were forced to retreat to the online world, and many only talked with people via video. Meeting virtually for a recurring program evolved into its own type of community, continuing long past the reopening of the world. During my virtual murder mysteries, of which I have several each year, a core group of attendees has formed; many have never met in person, but that hasn’t stopped them from forming friendships and community. They’ll talk beforehand, then stay on the Zoom calls after the mystery has been solved simply to chat with one another. It’s a welcoming group that truly cares about each other.
Sometimes the world can feel isolating, and the library is here to help you feel more connected. Whether virtually or in person, make sure to stop by to meet others and find your community.
Jess Shelleman is Branch Manager at the Littlestown Library, part of the Adams County Library System.