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A Local Author’s Guide to Growing Lifelong Readers
Stories can give children a place to explore new ideas, recognize their own experiences, and discover the pleasure of reading independently. In Crestline, the library helps make that discovery accessible by connecting families with books, programs, and welcoming spaces.
To learn more about the connection between creative writing and library literacy, we spoke with local children’s author Mara Bennett. Her comments reflect the practical ways authors, parents, educators, and community organizations can encourage young readers.
Bennett writes for middle-grade audiences, but her message applies to readers of every age: literacy grows through regular access, positive encouragement, and the freedom to choose meaningful books.
Meet the author behind the pages
Bennett began writing stories after volunteering at an elementary school reading group. “The children taught me that reading does not have to begin with a perfect match between a child and a book,” she says. “Sometimes it begins with a funny title, an interesting cover, or a character who feels familiar.”
That observation shapes her approach to school visits and community events. Rather than treating reading as a test, she encourages children to talk about what they notice, predict what might happen, and explain which characters they trust. These conversations help young readers build comprehension while keeping reading enjoyable.
She also sees libraries as essential partners for authors. A library introduces families to many genres without requiring them to purchase every book. It gives children time to browse, revisit favorite stories, and gradually develop personal preferences.
How libraries strengthen literacy
“Libraries remove the pressure to get everything right,” Bennett explains. A child can try a graphic novel, a mystery, a biography, or a poetry collection and simply return it if the selection does not connect. That freedom makes it easier to keep experimenting.
Librarians also help families find books at the right level and on subjects that interest each reader. Story hours, summer reading activities, teen programs, and author visits add social energy to the experience. Children begin to associate books with friendship, discovery, and belonging.
For families planning a visit, the Crestline Friends of the Library website provides library community updates alongside information about support, activities, and ways to stay involved.
From an author’s desk to a child’s hands
Bennett says that writing for children requires respect for a young reader’s intelligence. “Kids notice when a story talks down to them,” she says. “They want humor, honesty, excitement, and characters who are still figuring things out.”
That perspective also explains why book variety matters. A child who avoids traditional chapter books may become an enthusiastic reader through comics, illustrated nonfiction, audiobooks, or short stories. Literacy support should make room for different interests, learning styles, and attention spans.
The journey from author to reader depends on a strong local network. Writers create stories, librarians connect those stories with families, and community supporters help maintain the collections and programs that make access possible.
| Literacy support | What it offers young readers | How neighbors can help |
|---|---|---|
| Children’s book collections | Choice, independence, and repeated practice | Donate age-appropriate books or funds |
| Story hours and programs | Listening skills, vocabulary, and social connection | Attend, volunteer, or share event information |
| Author visits | Inspiration and a behind-the-scenes view of writing | Sponsor a program or invite local schools |
| Teen reading activities | Confidence, discussion, and peer encouragement | Support memberships and youth programming |
Why book-centered fundraising matters
Fundraising events can turn community generosity into lasting literacy resources. Proceeds may help provide new children’s titles, replace worn materials, support educational programs, or expand opportunities for teens.
The annual Memorial Day Book Sale is one example of how donated books can support the library while giving neighbors an affordable way to build home collections. Families can learn what to expect before attending, including how the sale works and why it matters.
Bennett believes these events carry a message beyond fundraising. “When people donate books or shop at a sale, they are saying that reading belongs in everyday community life,” she says. That visible support can encourage children to see the library as a shared resource worth caring for.
Small actions that encourage young readers
A child does not need a large home library to develop strong reading habits. A few minutes of shared reading, a regular library visit, or a conversation about a favorite character can make books part of a weekly routine.
Adults can also model curiosity by reading in front of children and showing interest in their choices. Asking a child to recommend a book often gives them confidence and turns reading into a relationship rather than an assignment.
Practical ways to support literacy locally
- Give a Friends of the Library membership as a family commitment to reading.
- Donate gently used books or contribute funds for children’s and teen materials.
- Attend book sales, story programs, and library events with young readers.
- Volunteer time for sorting, outreach, or fundraising activities.
- Share library news with schools, neighbors, and local parent groups.
Keep the story moving
Mara Bennett’s central message is simple: every reader needs access, encouragement, and the chance to find a story that feels personal. A strong library helps provide all three.
Support Crestline Library literacy by becoming a member, donating, volunteering, or attending the next community event. Each action helps place more books, programs, and possibilities within reach of local children and teens.