By Sarah Roach:
We have a very small, rural library and our afterschool program constantly faces challenges; for example, we are forced to hold programs outside, no matter the weather because the library occupancy limit is only sixteen which is less than the number of kids in the program.
Six years ago, Clifford and Kathy Scheline began volunteering with the Donnelly Library’s after-school program. Now the Dragon Readers’ Club is a huge success and everyday students rush into the Library to brag about achievements and get attention from Grandpa and Grandma Library.
Papa and Grandma Library are constant participants and helpers. Papa shovels walkways so children can reach our outdoor classrooms, fills propane for our two outdoor heaters and builds fires in our outdoor fire pit. Grandma takes blankets home to wash, makes snacks and brings treats. Both offer a lap to sit on, encouragement and time for reading.
Recently, when Donnelly students were polled about who in their lives they consider as trusted adults, 100% of the them listed either Papa Library or Grandma Library.
All the kids in town consider them grandparents. Their doors and hearts are always open. They help read to youth, they help encourage youth, they help feed youth and (in some cases) help house youth. In December 2022, the Sheriffs department contacted them because two children entering foster care listed Grandma and Grandpa Library as their family.
Donnelly Elementary recently received top scores in the Idaho Reading Indicator assessment. That is probably because every kid in the school has the opportunity to read with a “grandparent” at the library. Grandma and Grandpa Library are at the library almost every day and are the souls behind the program. From providing healthy snacks, to shoveling to sitting down and reading with a young child, Papa and Grandma are always there, offering their support and attention.
