Contact: Adam Wolfson, Director of Communications Adam.Wolfson@probation.lacounty.gov
Lancaster, CA-On Sunday, March 11 the Lancaster Public Library opened its
doors to youth ready to learn from the Challenger Memorial Youth Center (CMYC).
Nine young men from the CMYC Living Room Book Club received a library tour,
explored the library’s collections and opened their minds to the places that
books can take them.
Chief Probation Officer Terri L. McDonald and L.A. County Probation
staff joined the young men on their guided tour led by Los Angeles County
librarians. The tour provided a comprehensive overview of the various programs
and digital resources that are available through the County of Los Angeles
Public Library system.
Following the guided portion of the tour, the book club
members had an opportunity to explore the library’s vast collection of books
and media on their own. They each received a library card, a list of County libraries
and an understanding and deeper appreciation of this valuable community
resource.
“The Los Angeles County Probation Department has many
collaborative initiatives with the County of Los Angeles Public Library
including the operation of library
branches in two juvenile halls, County Library sponsored book clubs
throughout our residential facilities, and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics activities for our youth through the Library’s MākMō program,” said Dr. Jesus Corral, Senior Director
of Education Services for L.A. County Probation.
The CMYC book club meets
weekly in the “Living Room,” a dedicated space where the young readers gather to
discuss books and explore their imaginations. Conducive for reading, the Living
Room is filled with comfy couches, oversized chairs, and unlimited
opportunities for learning. It is the brainchild of Deputy Probation Officer
Janice Harris, whose love of reading and understanding of its transformative
power led her to establish the creative space. Since the book club’s inception last
November its membership has flourished and more youth have become engrossed in
the world of books.
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Deputy Probation Officer Janice Harris in the "Living Room" at Challenger Memorial Youth Center |
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