By Emily Burtis
Dorothy Bramlage Public Library
Junction City, Kansas — Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is proud to partner with Gentlemen of JC for a special storytime event that brings together literacy, mentorship, and community participation in a meaningful way. This joint program will feature mentored youth reading aloud to children and families, creating a storytime experience which supports both the readers and the children in attendance.
This partnership embodies a joint pledge to encourage young people through positive experiences, strong role models, and chances for development. By inviting youth who are mentored through Gentlemen of JC to serve as guest readers, the program gives them a chance to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and experience the pride that comes from being a leader in their community.
Reading aloud in an encouraging environment offers important benefits for the youth participating as readers. It helps improve fluency, comprehension, and public speaking skills while encouraging responsibility, preparation, and self-confidence. It also allows these young people to see themselves as role models for younger children, strengthening the value of literacy and the difference they can have on others through their voices and presence.
For the children and families attending storytime, the event offers more than just a fun literacy experience. It provides children with an opportunity to see older youth engaged in reading, learning, and leadership. Experiences like this can help children make positive connections with books, develop an interest in reading, and see literacy as a way to build relationships across ages. It additionally develops a sense of inclusion and connection by showing children that the library is a place where everyone can learn from one another.
“This joint effort is a wonderful example of what can happen when community organizations come together to support children and families,” said Emily Burtis, Head of the Young People’s Department at Dorothy Bramlage Public Library. “By pairing mentorship with literacy, we are not only promoting reading, but also developing opportunities for young people to grow as leaders and for younger children to see the joy and importance of books shared by caring role models.”
Dorothy Bramlage Public Library believes partnerships like this strengthen the entire community by connecting children with books, positive mentors, and rewarding experiences that support lifelong learning. The library is honored to work alongside Gentlemen of JC to provide a program that celebrates reading while encouraging confidence, leadership, and community pride.
Families are invited to join Dorothy Bramlage Public Library and Gentlemen of JC for this special storytime on Tuesday, June 30, at 10:00 AM at Dorothy Bramlage Public Library. The event is free and open to the public.