Jesse Smith Library looks to connect with kids with new ‘Story Time Line’

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BURRILLVILLE – From virtual trivia nights to Facebook challenges, the staff at Jesse Smith Memorial Library has been working to stay connected to patrons, even as the COVID 19 pandemic keeps them distanced.

Dubbed the “cornerstone of the community,” the library offers ways to stay informed and engaged during normal times, but the Harrisville building is currently closed to the public until further notice.

Now,  kids can have a story read to them by a librarian from home any time.

“We were looking to continue to serve our patrons in nontraditional ways while we are closed,” explained library Director Beth Ullucci. “We miss seeing our patrons especially the little ones during the COVID-19 crisis.”

This week, the library launched a new Story Time Line,  a version of a program normally run by the Children’s Department that families can access while they’re physically away.

The idea came from children’s librarian, Jenn Gasrow, who will record most of the stories. The line will also feature guest readers presenting books targeted for children age 10 and under.

The first story, Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, went live this week. New stories will be presented weekly.

To listen to a story,  patrons are instructed to call (401) 710-7800 and press “5” at any time during the menu.

It’s just one of many “virtual services” the facility is now offering.

On the Jesse Smith Facebook page, challenges and activities are published throughout the week. Kids can take part in a virtual Lego Club, with instructions for a creative project each Tuesday, and then share their creations. This week, library staff challenged patrons to create Picasso-style portraits but cutting different facial features out of old magazines.

For adults, there are audiobooks, informational databases and tutorials, such as one this week showing locals how to use library resources to help with auto repair.  An active Instagram page aims to keep teens in touch.

The outreach efforts aim to provide services and ideas for library guests in a time when the Burrillville community has been kept apart.

Those who need to get in touch with the library can contact staff via Facebook Messenger or by emailing the library at jmsreference@burrillville.org.

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