Buttons For Change Aldrich Public Library
The Aldrich Public Library is located in the heart of central Vermont. It serves Barre and the surrounding area by inspiring the joy of reading, promoting lifelong learning, and strengthening community through both traditional library services and innovative new programs. Like many public libraries today, Aldrich has seen many changes in its 108 years of existence. Where once patrons visited for a quiet retreat from the world, now they come to experience a more lively connection to it.
Buttons have been a great source of inspiration for those who come to the library. The recent Pokemon Go phenomena prompted the creation of button badges, where all ages were welcome to take on several library challenges to earn Pokemon badges. This prompted people to search our catalog and books, explore the library, and meet the librarians. It brought in people who weren't normally library users, and helped foster enthusiasm for being in the library.
We've also paired the buttons with our Wednesday Lego club. Children choose a book based on a theme, use Legos to create something from their book, and earn a button badge for their work. Our teens use the button maker to delve into their own creativity and design their own badges.
Children and adults alike are thrilled to receive a token of recognition for their efforts, and they love being able to collect physical badges. Fostering good relations with the community is important to us, and the badges have been a great tool to encourage a sense of belonging and accomplishment for those who come to the library.
ABM is proud to partner with organizations such as Aldrich Public Library. Their mission to inspire a love of reading is near and dear to our heart. That they have paired buttons with a pop-culture phenomenon excites us to no end!! What a clever use of Buttons for Change.