Sylvie Letendre
We are delighted to announce our new volunteer of the month for May, Sylvie! Congratulations and thank you for volunteering with us.
To celebrate our volunteer this month, here’s an interview with Sylvie:
1. Have you learned anything (about yourself or others) while volunteering with us?
I’ve rediscovered a sense of wonder and creativity. Also, the kind of books I read has changed. I’m much more expressive and enthusiastic. Also, the get-togethers Madeline organizes for the volunteers are enriching. I’ve met people of all ages and backgrounds with whom I’ve shared little moments of life. Among them, an 87-year-old woman who volunteers as a librarian. She had a radiant smile and contagious enthusiasm. Wow!
2. Have you noticed any changes in the children you read to? Especially regarding their enthusiasm for books?I started reading stories at a local daycare two years ago, and I’ve been happy to continue this work ever since. I work with different age groups each week. In early January of this year, I was introducing books to the 18-month-to-2-year-old group. At that age, I had to rely on touch and visuals to draw their attention to the book. Five weeks later, those same children sit down to listen to the story. Their relationship with the book has changed. They participate in the story when I ask them to. It’s truly rewarding to see them grow.
3. Do you remember a funny story that happened while you were volunteering with us?
When I read a story, I turn the book toward the children so they can see the book and the pictures throughout the reading. While I was reading a story to a group of 4- to 5-year-olds, a boy said to me, “You shouldn’t be reading the story because
you’re not looking at the book!!” I replied, “I read it several times before telling it to you, so I know it by heart.” And he replied: “No, you forgot a word…” Oops!!
4. Is there anything that surprised you (related to your volunteer experience with us, with yourself, etc.)?
As someone who is very serious about my work, I found myself surprised to be developing my creativity and, above all, letting go in order to make my stories fun and dynamic.
5. How do the skills you acquire during your volunteer work with us help you in other areas of your life?
I show more patience and empathy. Construction season is starting! That means trucks, tractors, and construction vehicles will be spotted all over the city. Check out this book and our fun activity to help little readers spot and recognize all the construction sites!
