Mineola Library Introduces New Student Volunteer Program

The is launching a new volunteer program aimed at middle and high school students. The program, called "Adopt-a-Shelf," allows students in grades six-12 to sign up to "adopt" a bookshelf in the children's room of the library.

"It's a great way for children to volunteer their time," Vivian Yuan, the youth services librarian and founder of the program said.

Yuan came up with the idea after the library organized a similar program last summer. Noticing the level of participation of the program, she decided to extend it to encourage students to spend more time in the library.

The program will involve students learning how to organize and stack books using either the Dewey decimal system or reference numbers. Volunteers will first have to fill out an application and take a test to qualify for the program.

At the end of their volunteer service, students will receive service credits or a certificate to document their work in the library.

Yuan added that students who participate in the Adopt-a–shelf program will learn how to better serve their community. "It's good for the children to help out here," Yuan said. "They will also be happy helping out other kids just like them."

The library has also organized other youth program events for the fall including "Minute to win it," a game show themed challenge, several after-school reading programs and a Harry Potter themed event in anticipation of the release of the new Harry Potter movie out in theatres.

For more information about the program or to pick up application, students can send an e-mail to childrensmineola@nassaulibrary.org or call 516-746-8488 (ext 1).