Folsom library highlights early‑literacy, teen volunteers and high circulation at council meeting

Tom Greyson, the Folsom Public Library director, told the City Council on April 28 that the branch checked out more items last year than any other location in the county, totaling "over a half million items" when digital loans are included. He credited a small staff of 11 full‑time employees, volunteers and the friends group for broad program delivery.

The presentation focused on early literacy and youth engagement. "Baby story time regularly serves over 50 infants a week," youth services librarian Lindsey Melhas said, adding that the program grew this year and that the library doubled baby story time offerings; staff also visit every Folsom‑Cordova kindergarten class and issued more than 775 library cards to students this year.

Amanda Perez and other youth‑services staff described teen volunteer programs and the summer reading campaign. "Between these two [volunteer] programs we work closely with about 80 teen volunteers who serve over 1,000 hours a year," one presenter said, citing job‑skills and leadership components.

Adult services include recurring book groups, free tax assistance through AARP Tax‑Aide, State Parks Library Pass events and a collection aimed at small business and career development. Staff noted the branch logs thousands of public computer and Wi‑Fi sessions monthly and will offer free access to a career development video platform in August.

Solomon Kish, a library commissioner and Folsom resident, urged the council to find additional budget support for the library’s programs and services. "Please look at the budget. Please find some money somewhere, and let's help these programs," he said.

Council members praised the staff and volunteers. The briefing did not include a council action; it served as an information item and an appeal for continued local support.