Three weeks into her new role as CEO/librarian, Selene LeBlanc is busy exploring ways to keep the Emo Library a fresh and engaging community hub for readers of all ages.
The resignation of former librarian Mellisa Gallagher last August left a vacancy at the library. As a lifelong resident of the district with a background in social services, LeBlanc’s friends and neighbours saw her as an ideal fit, encouraging her to throw her name in the ring for the role.
Although it’s been an adjustment with lots of learning, LeBlanc said she’s excited to be bringing new ideas to the table to keep the library running smoothly as a fun and engaging place to visit.
“I’m doing more programs and planning and continuing with what was done before, like the early literacy and story time in the mornings on Tuesdays,” LeBlanc said. “But also doing some more after-school kids clubs. They did the STEM clubs before, but we are also doing more things to focus on creativity and flexible thinking for the kiddos.”
After-school sessions with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) equipment began last September after the gear was donated to the library by Coeur Mining. Pieces of STEM equipment include various hands-on tools and building kits that are designed to teach and encourage the development of interest in related fields.
During her first few weeks in the role, LeBlanc has continued to offer use of the STEM equipment, holding Saturday outdoor scavenger hunts for children and after-school groups to encourage creativity with arts and crafts.
“The kids decide what they’re going to build and make themselves,” she said. “They’re really enjoying the cardboard box cutter. So, they’re using the tools that we have here at the library.”
A position is also open for a high school-aged youth volunteer to assist in busy times at the library while filling their quota of 40 hours spent volunteering required for graduation in Ontario.
“There’re several places where a youth volunteer can contribute here,” LeBlanc said. “I’m really hoping to match the student with their interests and see what they want to do in terms of volunteering. We could fix books, we could put books on the shelf, or we could do some planning and help with the after-school program.
“I think if a student’s interested in learning skills or if they’re looking to do post-secondary in library sciences, then coming here to learn firsthand might be helpful for them.”
To ensure that the library is able to continue functioning effectively into the future, LeBlanc said she will be looking at fundraising opportunities, starting with a silent auction.
“We’re looking for donations from community businesses and from our community members,” she said.
The library will accept donations to be sold in the silent auction, with the proceeds to be used to fund and maintain or improve the library’s programs.
LeBlanc is currently planning for some early day pre-Halloween activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 31. She said the day is still in the planning process, but updates will be available online on the library’s Facebook page once the details have been sorted.
She encourages anyone with new ideas for the library to get in touch by emailing emolibrary@emo.ca or visiting the library in person and speaking with her.
The posting for the youth volunteer position, as well as notices for new events and updates at the Emo Library, can also be viewed on the library’s Facebook page.
