It’s back-to-school time! These could be either exciting or dreaded
words, depending on the outlook of both students and parents.
Regardless, one of the first signs that summer vacation is coming to
an end is the need to stock up on this year’s school supplies.

For many families, this time only marks a transition from fun and
play to school time regimen. For some families, however, it is a
challenge to provide their children with the new clothes, shoes,
backpacks, and school supplies they will need to help ensure a good
start to a successful school year. Thankfully, there is help.

For the past two years, the Salvation Army of Greater Green Bay
has joined forces with the Service League of Green Bay, Howe
Community Resource Center, and Newcap to present the One Stop
School Shop, where families shop for backpacks and age-appropriate
school supplies. At the One Stop School Shop’s Resource Fair,
representatives from local social service agencies and nonprofits
provided community resources and assistance. The Library,
represented by volunteers from the Friends of the Brown County
Library, offered free dictionaries, flyers with Library locations and
hours of operation, and free pencils and stickers for families. In
addition, the Bookmobile was stationed just outside the doors so
families could check out books and sign up for Library cards for
their children.

As we talked to families at our table, we made a point of asking them
if they already had Library cards, with the intention of directing them
to the Bookmobile to sign up. We were quite delighted when many
parents shared with us that their families already had Library cards,
which branch they used the most, and which Library programs they
looked forward to at those branches. Several remarked how much
they were looking forward to the new Library locations soon to open
in Ashwaubenon and Denmark.

It was both gratifying and heartening to see how many families had
already steered their children to the Library. A simple Library card
opens so many doors to Library materials, programs, and services for
these students.

It’s a good reminder to all Friends members how important a role our
donations and volunteer hours play in our community. Thanks again
for your continued support for both the Friends and for your Brown
County Library. We saw firsthand that your help truly does
make a difference.