Literacy Kinship in Keene

Two adults and a child sharing a book at a table, engaged in a thoughtful discussion.

Photo credit: Antje Hornbeck, Public Information Coordinator for SAU29

By Cassie Willner

Every community can benefit from robust library programming, but not every library has the budget to support the activities they might wish to offer their patrons. Recognizing the challenges faced by many smaller libraries, CLiF works closely with librarians to provide funding for new books and engaging activities that bring patrons of all ages through the doors.

In recognition of the invaluable role a public library plays in building a culture of literacy in a community, we seek to build connections to the library whenever possible through our many CLiF grants. For example: in addition to a myriad of literacy supports, our flagship Year of the Book program also aims to link the elementary school grantee with the public library to enhance the grant goals.

We facilitate the relationship building process via a few steps over the course of the grant year.

First, the public library must write a recommendation letter for the school’s grant application.
If selected, the school then receives $1,000 in new library books purchased by CLiF and the public library receives $500 in new library books purchased by CLiF.
Finally, the library and school have the option to jointly host an author visit at either the school or public library to promote library outreach and library card sign-ups.

Promoting the public library within the school community is an effective way to build awareness and engage families, while serving as a reminder that the library offers free (yes, FREE!) programming for everyone. It's also an opportunity for librarians to visit the school and introduce themselves to local students. Without a doubt, CLiF believes in the power of libraries and we seek to promote their work however and whenever we can.

Inside a Recent Event

Earlier this month in Keene, NH, Wheelock Elementary School collaborated with Keene Public Library on a well-attended Year of the Book event held at the library. School librarian and grant coordinator Cheri Nutting was on hand to introduce special guest Susie Spikol, an author and naturalist at the Harris Center for Conservation Education. Because the event was held at the library, the event was free and open to not only school families, but all community members.

Sporting a brightly colored mushroom hat, Susie led her audience through an interactive fungi-focused workshop, and shared excerpts from her books. Attendees then had a chance to peruse the new library books purchased by CLiF. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Susie's three books were the first to circulate!

“Susie Spikol was so engaging and the students and parents were captivated by her presentation," Cheri shared. "The hands-on experience with local fungi was a lot of fun and the students were proud of their clay mushrooms they were able to take home.

“Wheelock is extremely grateful to Keene Public Library, Susie Spikol, and CLiF for the grant that made this all possible."