Storytelling Club tells stories at library
November 18, 2019
Magic. Fantasy lands. Fairies and Disney princesses. An audience looking in awe. A symphony of screaming, pushing and giggling echoed from this circle of children.
All of that and more was brought to life at the Wando Public Library Nov. 16 when 63 parents and children were present for storytime, presented by the Storytellers Club.
Children were given various books to be read aloud, always with a learning experience. Excited children came dressed in princess costumes, waiting to meet each princess. Children also got to take pictures with them.
Soon after, activities had the children make crafts of mirrors or shields, which said, “Who’s the bravest of them all?”
“Typically, one of our staff members provides a storytime for a specific age group,” said Kate Dentzmen, the children’s manager for the library. “When we do storytimes here at the library, it’s for all ages.”
At this particular event, however, they had help from the Storytellers Club.
After contacting Dentzmen about forming a partnership, the Wando Storytellers performed at the library.
“We’re working with them to develop their storytelling skills, their relationships with children and how they support literacy,” Dentzmen said.
The Storytellers plan to continue their performances starting again in February.
The education effort has also reached out to the Wando student body. Two students, Sierra Beerer and Hanna Szatkowski, had volunteered reading the stories.
The two were informed about the opportunity from Hope Lanier, representing the Wando Storytellers. After having it presented to them in a concert choir class, they took the opportunity.
“I didn’t know exactly what to expect,” Szatkowski said, “but I love Disney princesses, and I love children. So I wanted to give it a try, and I love it.”
After joining the club, both plan on volunteering again in order to help educate and read to the children.
“It’s just something fun that the kids can do on a Saturday, and I’m happy we could bring that to them,” Beerer said.
Thanks to their help, this particular storytime was read to children by Princess Anna from Frozen (Beerer) and a Fairy Princess (Szatkowski).
Beerer, as Princess Anna, told how her sister Elsa had left the kingdom. So, responsibility fell on her shoulders in order to be a fit ruler.
“Do you (children) have any responsibilities at home?” Szatkowski, as the Fairy Princess, told of a boy who had to find courage. “Every problem has an opportunity. You just have to look for it.”
There had always been a goal, or theme, of each storytime. The Wando Storytellers moved to inspire children.
Always, at the library, they focus on the importance of education as well.
“The goal of the library is to support literacy for all,” Dentzmen said.