Alana Knapp, assistant library director at Treat Memorial Library, seen here in November celebrating the library’s anniversary, is now working to support homeschooling families through bi-monthly meetups designed to foster community and engagement. File photo/Franklin Journal

LIVERMORE FALLS — Treat Memorial Library is actively working to build a supportive community for homeschooling families through bi-monthly meetups that offer opportunities to craft, play, and socialize. The most recent gatherings took place on Jan. 8 and Jan. 14, despite the blustery, bitter cold.

Alana Knapp, assistant library director emphasized the library’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of homeschool families, particularly those with teens and tweens. “Homeschoolers come in lots of different shapes and sizes, and it’s hard to figure out what they all want,” she said.

The library recently received a $5,000 grant, part of which will be used to update its book collection, Knapp said, noting that some materials are outdated. She hopes to acquire more homeschooling books and is seeking feedback from the homeschool community on what resources they would like to see added. Knapp said they want to hear from families to better support their homeschooling needs. During the meetups, the library sets up STEM areas, craft stations, and games to engage attendees of all ages.

Participation can be unpredictable, especially after the holidays, but Knapp highlighted the unexpectedly large turnout for the weekly craft circle on Jan. 7. The library remains a warm and welcoming space for families, with plenty of seating for reading, drawing, and crafting.

A notable favorite among children is the LEGO Club, open to homeschoolers and the general public alike. The library proudly displays the creations alongside the children’s names, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community.

Knapp acknowledged the challenge of catering to older homeschool students, as activities for high school-aged teens are less common. “There’s a big need to fill for the teen age group of homeschoolers, but it’s hard to nail down what they are looking for in regard to activities,” she said.

To address this, resources like Maine Home Education suggest that parents can support social interaction by enrolling their children in homeschool co-ops, extracurricular activities, sports teams, volunteer opportunities, community classes, and summer camps. High school students can also take community college courses. Engaging in these activities allows homeschooled children to form meaningful relationships and develop essential social skills.

The library’s efforts extend beyond homeschooling initiatives, and many activities are for all patrons. To celebrate its 70th anniversary, the library hosted a bookmark contest, highlighting the winning designs on its Facebook page and at the circulation desk. January’s featured design, “Galaxy,” was created by a 12-year-old homeschool patron. Copies of the bookmark are available at the library, with additional designs to be unveiled in February and March.

Tables and crafts are set up for homeschooling families to enjoy during the Jan. 8 meetup at Treat Memorial Library in Livermore Falls Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal.

Knapp observed that homeschool families vary widely in their approaches. Some have been homeschooling since kindergarten and have had years to research and prepare, while others might suddenly decide to pull their child from public school and not know where to start. “That’s another need we’re trying to meet,” Knapp said.

For more information about upcoming events, visit Treat Memorial Library or follow them on Facebook.