Home Schooled Grace Norman, 11, Volunteers at MCHL

For the past six months, Grace has been shelving books and helping maintain the library's inviting atmosphere. “I love being surrounded by books,” Grace shared. She has an extensive personal collection at home and counts Enid Blyton, the beloved author of timeless children’s classics, as her favourite. Grace is currently working her way through Blyton’s collection.

Grace says she enjoys the peaceful atmosphere and finds it a great place to meet others while also giving her time to herself. She adds that the friendly staff and the community make her volunteering experience even more rewarding.

Grace’s journey began when her mother, Elizabeth Norman, reaching out to the MCHL staff about volunteering opportunities. With a flexible four-day school schedule, Grace has been able to dedicate her time to the library with her mother always nearby.

In addition to her passion for books, Graces favourite subjects are maths and history. She enjoys gymnastics and has what she describes as a “giant obsession” with cats. Her favourite part of the community hub, apart from the books, is the makerspace, where she recently created a vinyl graphic t-shirt. She also participates in the library's popular "Crafternoons" programme during term time. The MCHL staff hold Grace in high regard, describing her as a confident, well-spoken young lady who enthusiastically embraces her role.

Manawatū Community Hub Libraries offer a wide range of volunteering opportunities, catering to those who can commit regularly and those who prefer to help out with one-off events.

Across the region, volunteers play an essential role in ensuring the success of the local community libraries, events, and services that MCHL offers. Local event such as the annual Family Fun Day in March and MCHL Homelink service wouldn’t be possible without volunteer support.

Those who are interested in making a difference are encouraged to register their interest to join the growing team of volunteers.

Volunteering | Manawatū Community Hub Libraries

Grace Norman aged 11, enjoys volunteering in the library weekly shelving books.