For Stephanie and her family, the library is more than a place to borrow books — it’s an essential source of learning, inspiration, and connection.
As a home educator, Stephanie finds endless use of the library’s variety of resources.
“I feel like I’m coming into a candy shop when I come into the library,” she said with a big smile. “There’s such a diversity for all my different ages of students. We rely on a lot of the books here to supplement their curriculum, as well as just the enjoyment of reading.”
The library’s impact on her family stretches back years. Storytimes, book displays, and children’s activities helped spark her kids’ early love of reading.
“Ever since my oldest child was young, we started coming to Storytime and we just fell in love with the library from that moment.” Now, with kids from age six to eighteen, the library still brings them together. “My children are all lifelong learners and readers … they’re always inspired to go deeper and learn more.”
Today, as her children grow into avid readers and researchers, with her eldest now using the library for Running Start coursework, that foundation continues to shape their educational journey.
One memorable moment came from a single book on ancient China, which inspired a full year of learning centered on the Silk Road. “That’s what a book can do,” she reflects. “One little book can inspire a whole world of exploration.”
As Island County residents, the convenience of the library is a major benefit for Stephanie’s family. Ordering books online and having them delivered to the Freeland library has become a favorite part of her library routine.
“When I come and pick up my books, it’s like opening up a present,” she said. “I really love the ease of being able to find exactly what I’m looking for.”
Stephanie values the library’s role in strengthening the community. She describes it as “a network for our entire community,” offering everything from computers and printing to educational programs, outreach events, and even resources for seniors. She sees the library as a place that “reaches from the very youngest of our members … to our most beautiful elders.”
For those who have not visited yet, her advice is simple: just come in. With a free library card and a world of knowledge to explore, she believes everyone can benefit. “You cannot go wrong with just coming into the library,” she said.
From fostering curiosity to connecting neighbors, the library continues to enrich the lives of families like Stephanie’s — one visit, one display, and one book at a time.
Want to share your library story? Contact Marketing@sno-isle.org, opens a new window.