Elizabeth Quaye, of Niles, is a volunteer for the Niles District Library. She has volunteered for the library since May.

What do you do as a volunteer for the library?

I go in and usually fulfill whatever duties they have available. I have done everything from re-shelving books to checking for outdated books. I have helped with one of the teens and tweens cooking classes. I have also helped with the Library of Things, which is a new project getting started. It’s a community a place where people can checkout appliances and tools to borrow. It’s a skill share space and space for things you wouldn’t use every day. There are things like ice cream and snow cone makers.

What inspired you to volunteer for the library?

I needed something to do, so I went to the library because I go there pretty often. It’s kind of cool because I would always go to the library but never thought to volunteer, so I have got to see a lot of the work that happens in the background. And it feels kind of natural, because I would go there and see all the faces.

What do you feel like you get out of the experience?

I discovered a lot of books that I don’t think I would have found. I [also] really enjoy connecting with the staff there. I enjoy just getting to know them better instead of just being a patron and helping them with whatever they need. I am also able to learn some of the ins and outs of the local library that I go to.

What is your favorite part about volunteering?

Probably connecting with the local staff.

Why would you encourage other people to volunteer for their local library?

I would encourage others to volunteer because they would get a chance to see some of the creativity that goes on to create the programs that they can attend. They would also have the opportunity to present ideas and be part of that creative process or just see the ins and outs of what creates the library. I think it would give people an appreciation for what the library does. I realized our Niles library actually does a lot of programs and a lot to engage the community, such as the Summer Lunch Program. I think our library does a lot. I think that would be a great way for patrons to come in and see how cool our library is.