Storytime Finds a Home
When the Chelan Public Library temporarily closed its doors for remodeling, librarian Vivian Edwards faced a challenge — where to host beloved community programs like Storytime. Thanks to a partnership with the Lake Chelan Community Center, that challenge quickly turned into an opportunity to connect with families in new ways.
“The community really helped us out,” said Edwards. “The Community Center welcomed us in and made it possible to continue connecting with families while our library space is under construction.”
Now, twice a month, laughter, songs, and stories fill one of the Center’s flexible meeting rooms as young children and their caregivers gather for Storytime at the Lake Chelan Community Center, hosted by NCW Libraries. Each free session includes stories, rhymes, music, and interactive play designed to build early literacy skills and a love of reading.
Edwards, who joined NCW Libraries in July as supervising librarian for the Chelan and Manson branches, describes the library as “the living room of the community.” She says The Community Center is a natural fit.
“It’s a really critical third place for people to gather and make connections,” she said. “I’ve even heard about new moms meeting there and forming friendships while their kids play in the lobby. What’s a community without a space like that?”
In addition to Storytime, Edwards is launching new outreach programs — including tech-help sessions at the Senior Center, a “Curiosity Club” for Manson students exploring science and STEM topics, and monthly visits to the food bank to distribute library materials and card applications.
As the Chelan Library continues its renovation, the partnership with the Lake Chelan Community Center ensures that stories — and community connections — continue to thrive. Storytime at the Lake Chelan Community Center takes place at 10:30 a.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
For details, visit ncwlibraries.org/chelan or call (509) 682-5131.
