This sounds like such a fun program for libraries working with kids!

If any CMLE members want to participate, but may not be in session or need a summer location – let’s talk about us hosting something here at HQ if that can help you participate. Connections are so fun, it can really help your community members to have a more positive connection to the library!

“For the 2017 Summer Reading program I coordinated a pen pal program among Children’s/Youth Services Departments across the United States.  We had approximately 50 libraries sign up. We are doing it again this summer so I’m sending out this google form and the below description to see if other libraries are interested in participating this summer.

Google Form https://goo.gl/forms/zZMYkWXhjxuf2RB23

Children are encouraged to participate every time they visit by drawing pictures and writing general letters about what it’s like to be a kid where they live. We’re not looking to do one-on-one exchanges between children, because there’s no guarantee of continued participation and we don’t want any kids getting heartbroken because of someone else’s inability to regularly participate. In the case of my library I have a bulletin board space where I hang the letters and pictures we receive and place a mailbox for our patrons to place the letters/cards/pictures they want to send.  I periodically gather those items and send them off to other participating libraries.  We also kept track of where we got letters from on a map with flag pins.  This year I’ve proposed the option to libraries about whether they wish to mail freely or have an assigned partner library.

Please fill out the google form if you’re interested in participating, and please feel free to email me if you have any questions.

Thank you!

Shana Shea
Head of Children’s Services
860-285-1917
Windsor Public Library
www.windsorlibrary.com