Friends of Alpine City Library propose community children's library initiative

In the heart of Alpine City, a passionate group of women gathered at the city council meeting, their voices echoing with enthusiasm and determination. The Friends of the Alpine City Library presented a compelling case for establishing a volunteer-run children's library, aiming to enrich the community and foster a love for reading among its youngest residents.

Jennifer Wadsworth, the executive director, opened the presentation by sharing her favorite children's book, setting a warm tone for the evening. She emphasized the library's potential to serve as a beloved community asset, aligning with the goals of the nearby Sculpture Park. The board, now more diverse with new members like literacy specialist Barbara Lewis and volunteer coordinator Jen Gu, is committed to creating a space that reflects the needs and desires of Alpine's families.

Madeline Hagen, a representative of the board, passionately outlined three key reasons for the library's necessity: it is wanted by the community, it addresses essential needs, and it fosters a sense of belonging. Citing survey results, she noted that 76% of residents expressed the importance of a library, highlighting a strong desire for resources that support literacy and education, especially for neurodivergent children.

Kristen Hagen further elaborated on the library's broader role, stating that it would provide not just books, but a variety of resources and activities for families. She shared the board's accomplishments, including the establishment of a lending library with over 5,000 books and regular storytelling events that attract 10 to 25 children each week. The excitement in her voice was palpable as she detailed upcoming activities, from storybook tea parties to a refugee literacy program.

The Friends of the Alpine City Library are not seeking financial support from the city; instead, they propose a public-private partnership that would allow them to apply for grants and fundraise independently. Their vision is to create a vibrant space that preserves Alpine's small-town charm while providing essential resources for its youth.

As the meeting concluded, the council was left with a sense of the community's strong desire for a children's library—a place where stories come alive and imaginations flourish. The Friends of the Alpine City Library are ready to roll up their sleeves and make this dream a reality, inviting the city to join them in this exciting journey.