It goes without saying that the Chestermere Fire Service is an extremely important and valued organization in our community. When they’re not responding to emergency calls, they love participating in community events and getting involved in the programs happening around town. So when the Chestermere Public Library contacted CFS inviting them to come and read stories at the libraries weekly Wednesday story time, they happily obliged. That first visit turned out to be such a success and the members of CFS that attended had such great time, they asked if they could return the following week for a repeat.
“The Chestermere Public Library has been nurturing partnerships with local services, and businesses over the past several years. Having our local Firefighters read for Storytime helps children and their caregivers to see them as friendly members of our community, both as individuals and as part of our local Emergency Services. We have had many guests read to the children, including Mayor Patricia Matthews, several other members of council, Bruce McAllister and our new MLA Leela Aheer”, says Cathy Burness, Community Development Coordinator at Chestermere Public Library.
Approximately 70 children along with their parents/caregivers attended the May 27th Story time. Four members of CFS were on scene and read books to the children that were all about being firefighters. Appropriately, one of the firefighters read a story called “Firehouse” and they even did sound effects when called for in their stories.
The children were then treated to tour the firetruck, learn about the equipment, check out the gear the firefighters wear and also got to see the truck all lit up.
Burness went on to say, “We offer Storytimes at the Library on Wednesday and Friday mornings at 10:15 during most of the year. Seeing local authorities, and other individuals in a friendly approachable context, helps us all to feel a greater sense of community. It also shows kids that people they look up to think reading is fun. In the past, our guest Storytellers have been very humble, accommodating and entertaining. The Firefighters were no exception. We look forward to deepening our connections within this great community. If you are interested in being a guest Storyteller, please contact cathy.burness@chestermerepubliclibrary.com
