by Claire B., 15
“If it were up to my kids, we would be there every day … It’s their number one spot to go to,” says Katy Healey, an Asbury Park Public Library patron. Healey has been a local homeowner for fourteen years and has been visiting the library for just as long. In addition, she is a mother of two, with a four-year-old daughter and a seven-year-old son. Since before her kids were born, she has been using the essential Asbury community space that so many people cherish.
Now that she has two children, going to the library has become part of Healey’s regular routine. Visiting the library frequently, one to two times per week, is something her kids always look forward to. Recently, on a beautiful, sunny day, she asked her daughter if she wanted to go to the park. Most kids would jump at the chance to say yes to that, but she chose to go to the library instead. Whether the trip is planned to take out a book, just browse, or attend an event, it is always an experience everyone can enjoy.
The most special part of the library to Healey and her children is the people. Ms. Kat, Ms. Sam, and Library Lex have been at the library for years, continuously creating a welcoming environment. They go out of their way to make visitors feel comfortable, offering food and drinks, and talking to people about their day or interests, not just about books. They also make an effort to remember details about guests, including Healy’s kids, which shows their genuine care for the community. Without these friendly faces, the culture would not be the same. Part of the reason Healey’s kids are so excited each time they go to the library is to have the opportunity to engage with the librarians.
Another aspect of the library that Healey and her kids love is the fun events it hosts. When she was new to the area, Healey participated in programs, including crochet club and Kai Chi classes, that helped her make friends she still has to this day. Her kids have also both made many friends through experiences at the library. Her daughter especially enjoys participating in art class with Ms. Rachel. These classes give kids the opportunity to express their creativity, which is very important at a young age. Another unique event the library hosted was a presentation by an organization that takes in animals no longer able to live in the wild. They showed many animals, including a snake and an alligator. Her son often mentions this memorable event, even though it was years ago. Other events, like summer reading kickoff and end-of-summer parties, game nights, and speaker events, offer opportunities to be part of the community and have fun.
Although she spends most of her time in the Junior Library with her two kids, Healey still finds time to check out her own books, as she is an avid reader herself. The Asbury Park Public Library makes it easy to check out books. Being able to place a hold on a book online and pick it up when she gets there allows Healey to spend quality time with her kids in the Junior Library instead of searching for her own book. This system the library offers also conveniently enables anyone in a rush to check out a book quickly.
Healey describes the library as a “second home.” This is true for many different people of different backgrounds. The Asbury Park Public Library is a free community space open to anyone who wants to use it. Healey says, “Books and reading and information are so important, but it’s a hub of our community,” demonstrating the significance of the library to its members. Although it may seem like an average library to outsiders, the Asbury Park Library is a treasured place that brings the community together.
Bridge Ink 