Local libraries foster curiosity and knowledge for students
Those who stand in the children’s section of any public library for long enough would likely see several children keeping the place abuzz, falling in love with a novel or a comic book. What most people do not see, however, are the hands guiding these moments, librarians who spend their days nurturing curiosity, learning and a lifelong love of reading.
The first time Amelia Abram, senior, visited the public library, she was six years old. Being an avid reader since she was young and going through books at a rapid pace, libraries gave her access to thousands of books in a financially sustainable way. “I remember walking in, the books looking like towers and I remember the friendly atmosphere and the wonder of books, CDs, movies and all sorts of things easily accessible. […] Librarians have always helped create a friendly environment, though it’s nothing overt, it can go a long way, not to mention their work in curating and organizing the books, making meaningful stories stand out,” Abram said.
Having read over 40 books just this year, Abram advocates for reading beginning in childhood, something that her mother encouraged. “Reading is the best way to gain understanding of the world around you, different people, places, even worlds. Both fiction and non-fiction can teach you things, whether a new skill or a new insight into the human experience,” Abram said. “Children in libraries foster a love of reading from an early age, which makes children more successful and empathetic adults.”
Librarians are often the first adults outside a child’s family who treat their questions with full seriousness. These small, everyday interactions can accumulate into the belief that learning can be joyful. Lindsay Halflen, children’s librarian, has been working at the Camarillo Library for the past eight years and feels that what makes her position so rewarding is seeing curious children turn into hardworking teens. “[Many] times, I notice a kid who’s been going here a long time hasn’t come in a while, and most likely they’ve moved [on] and [gotten] older,” Halflen said.
For the past 21 years, Charlotte Burrows has taken on a multitude of positions at the Thousand Oaks Public Library, and currently works as the Public Services Division Manager. Throughout each role she has taken on, her passion for books and libraries has continued to grow, and she believes that libraries offer impactful habits for young learners. “I think that libraries are really the gateways to learning. They’re great pillars of education because they offer free access to books and digital resources and technology. All of those help build skills and learning and a desire for lifelong learning,” Burrows said.
While initially planning to teach middle school history, Burrows was inspired by her father, who was an academic librarian. Over the years, Burrows has worked with all ages through the variety of programs and services offered by the Thousand Oaks Public Library, from baby storytimes to education workshops to literacy support. “I just love being able to serve, so using my unique talents and experience in education to serve the community. I love being able to help. I like being able to answer questions or just provide service,” Burrows said.
Just minutes from Newbury Park High School, there are multiple public libraries available for all members of the community, providing student educational support and a safe space for everyone. “Reading builds focus, it gets you off screens and reading the same book as others allows you to connect with them and add to the conversation. With the right book, reading is so fun,” Abram said.
