By: Ken DeJarnette, Friends of the Napa Library Board Member
In April 2024, students from the Camille Creek Community School in Napa, California, again demonstrated the power of community service by volunteering at the Friends of the Napa Library (FOL) book sale set-up. The book sale, which helps fund critical library programs, is so much easier to set-up thanks to the energetic involvement of these young volunteers. This sale was the most successful in recent history.
Two student volunteers
FOL book sales are a mammoth task, involving the movement of hundreds of heavy boxes filled with thousands of books, along with numerous tables, wire book racks, chairs, et al. Everything involving the set-up (and teardown) must be completed quickly to minimize the disruption and impact on the Library and its Community Room, where the sale takes place. Historically, the physical demands of the setup process have posed challenges, particularly given the age of many regular volunteers. However, the Camille Creek students bring their youthful energy and strength to the forefront, accomplishing in just a few hours what would typically take much longer.
Books waiting to be moved!
By involving themselves in such activities, these students not only provide invaluable assistance but also gain a sense of the impact of volunteerism. Their contribution underscores the importance of intergenerational support and cooperation in community projects.
Special thanks are due to Nancy Dempsey, Principal, and Angela Higdon, Assistant Principal, who have been instrumental in nurturing this spirit of community service been instrumental in nurturing this spirit of community service within the school and have been partnering with the FOL for many books sales. Their leadership and commitment to civic engagement have clearly influenced these young individuals, inspiring them to give back to their community in meaningful ways.
Hard at work setting up the sale
The success of the book sales highlight the positive outcomes that can arise from such collaborative efforts. It not only brings the community together but also ensures that the FOL can continue their essential support for library services, thanks to the hard work and enthusiasm of these remarkable students and our volunteers. This partnership between Camile Creek and the Friends of the Napa Library is a testament to the strength and potential of community collaboration.