Findlay library to host school supply swap

FINDLAY — The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library is helping students get ready for a new school year. A free School Supply Swap will be held from 1-4 p.m. Saturday in the library's Lindamood Room. The event is open all students entering grades 6-12 and aims to provide new and gently used school supplies to those in need, said Carah Alvarez, teen service specialist. Staff and some patrons have already donated items. The public is also encouraged to bring in supplies that they never got to use or only used a few times. These supplies will be given a new life in a different student's hands, she said. "The list is from our middle school and high school. That was kind of our main focus," Alvarez said. "This is a way to help youth in the upper grades." She said she feels like some of the other collections in town are more aimed at younger students. "That was my main focus here," she said. "You don't have to donate. You can just come in. We're not watching how much you take. There is not a limit. I feel that's the most important thing. When you start putting on limitations or saying, oh, you have to have this or you have to show your income, you are going to stop anybody who actually needs it and who is scared for the first time to even ask." That's why it's "an open door" event, said Alvarez. "I want them to feel comfortable. If a kindergartener walks in and grabs something, I'm not doing to stop them," she said. This is also a great opportunity for students and families to clear out unused materials or stock up on essentials," added Alvarez. "No donation is required to participate. Students are welcome to simply attend and pick up supplies they need for the new school year." Needed items include highlighters; notebooks; backpacks; glue sticks; colored pencils; pens with black, blue and red ink; dictionaries; hygiene kits; eight-tab page dividers; three-ring binders; art supplies; wide-ruled notebook paper; headphones; tissues; pencils; mechanical pencils; pencil bags and pouches; pocket folders; and three pronged, regular or two-pocket folders. "Every student deserves to start the year with the tools they need to succeed," said Alvarez. "This program is about building community, supporting one another, and helping teens feel confident and ready for school." Items may be dropped off today and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Younger Room. Call the youth department at 419-422-1712 to have a staff member meet you to drop off your donation. Items will not be accepted at the circulation desk or the children's department. For more information, contact Alvarez at calvarez@findlaylibrary.org or call 419-422-1712.