In 2018, The Foundation for Delaware County partnered with 42 nonprofit organizations to help improve the health and well-being of Delaware County residents. The J. Lewis Crozer Library was one of these partners, receiving a grant to fund the expansion of programming, services, and outreach to support reading enhancement in Chester’s youth population—with an emphasis on health and well-being content.

To date, the library has provided health and wellness-focused programs and events for all ages, including: a day of play; ‘Eating the Alphabet’ themed storytimes, based on the book by Lois Ehlert; a healthy foods taste test for youth; a healthy harvest festival; and providing books for the youth and families served by the Chester Housing Authority. 

In October of this year, the Chester Housing Authority invited the library to participate in their Read and Treat Halloween event. Lauren Sands, Head of Programming at Crozer Library, provided an interactive storytime (pictured below) for the children that included engaging books, songs and rhymes, and even some games for the older children. At the end of the event, participants left with sweet treats AND a new book, thanks to the grant provided by The Foundation.

The grant is also funding the library’s ‘Be Well’ initiative, which aims to support Chester’s health and well-being needs through a variety of programs, services and resources focusing on health, nutrition, fitness, and kindness.

Interested in reading more? Check out this article on Crozer Library written by The Foundation for Delaware County – J. Lewis Crozer Library Spotlight – January 2019