Everyone gathered in Dietel Library on a bright Sunday morning to help spark an early love of reading. The event kicked off with a gentle guitar and vocal rendition of Blackbird by The Beatles, as the children gathered on the carpet for the first book of the day, Strega Nona's Harvest by Tomie dePaola, read by V W. ’27. V shared that she “wanted to do this event because of how wonderful our extended community is, and how extensive our library's resources are for kids.” 
 

Amalea I. ’28 continued next with The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. With it’s bright and vibrant illustration, it immediately engaged the younger audience.
 

Katya B. ’27 led the group through a bug themed dance and then read the last book of the event, Some Bugs by Angela DiTerlizzi. 
 

Following the readings, the group transitioned to hands-on crafts. The LLC members curated activities for different age groups including painting flower pots, creating butterflies out of coffee filters and clothespins, and even a sticker activity for the youngest attendees!
 

Reflecting on the event’s success, LLC Member Imogen G. ’28 said, “I’m really glad that the kids seemed to have as much fun at the event as we did planning it.” 
 

The Emma students were most likely not expecting the amount of chaos that would ensue when a handful of toddlers are placed in a room together, but they handled themselves with grace, composure and patience! Assistant Director of Research and Archives Stephanie Ross shared, “as a librarian, and as a mom, it was a joy to watch the students lead a story time for young children in our library this April. The afternoon was filled with laughter, wonder and community connection.”