[OPLINLIST] Bring a Service in Action Nook to Your Library!

[jdwyer at library.ohio.gov]

Posted on behalf of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. Cross-posted; please excuse duplication.

[cid:image002.jpg at 01DD6AA5.38424C40]The National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) in Columbus is excited to invite public libraries across the state to express interest in hosting a Service in Action Nook<https://forms.monday.com/forms/0238aab94a843686d794783ee66a2ece?r=use1>, an interactive space that connects Veterans' stories with meaningful opportunities for children, families, and community members to serve others.

Thanks to funding from an Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) grant, NVMM will expand the initiative to five Ohio libraries in 2027 and five additional libraries in 2028.

What is a Service in Action Nook?
Service in Action Nooks are welcoming, interactive spaces within libraries that encourage visitors to explore the meaning of service through three simple steps:

  *   Story: Discover the experiences of Veterans and others who have made a difference through service.
  *   Meaning: Reflect on the values of service, kindness, courage, and community.
  *   Action: Participate in simple, hands-on activities that positively impact others.
Visitors can write thank-you letters to Veterans, create kindness cards for military-connected children, design bookmarks to inspire future readers, and participate in other service projects that make a difference in their communities.

The initiative has already reached thousands of participants through partnerships with Columbus Metropolitan Library and other community organizations. Learn more and view a slideshow of Service in Action Nooks on the NVMM website<https://nationalvmm.org/service-in-action/>.

What does hosting a Nook involve?
Selected library partners will work with NVMM to establish a dedicated space for the Nook, make its activities accessible to visitors, and identify opportunities to connect the Nook with existing library programs.

NVMM will provide the core Nook materials and resources through grant funding, along with guidance for implementation, activity templates, and ongoing support. We anticipate the Nook remaining in place for 2-3 months, with the option to extend the duration if requested by the library.

Each Nook will also include supplies for a community service event. Whenever possible, NVMM works with local schools, Veterans, and community organizations to complete a service project and celebrate the power of service.

Libraries do not need an existing Veterans program to participate. We are especially interested in partners who are excited about connecting their communities with opportunities for service.

Who should express interest?
We welcome interest from public libraries of all sizes and from every region of Ohio. Ideal partners will have:

  *   An accessible, visible location for the Nook, preferably in an area with regular visitor traffic.
  *   Interest in incorporating service activities into library programming.
  *   Staff who can serve as a point of contact and help maintain materials.
  *   A willingness to connect with local schools, Veterans, and community partners when possible.

Interested in bringing a Nook to your community?

NVMM is currently identifying library partners for openings in 2027 and 2028. Libraries are invited to complete a brief Interest Form to share information about their community, available space, and potential opportunities for collaboration.

Express Your Interest: Service in Action - Library Interest Form<https://forms.monday.com/forms/0238aab94a843686d794783ee66a2ece?r=use1>

Submitting the form does not commit your library to hosting a Nook. NVMM will review responses and follow up with interested libraries to discuss potential partnerships, timelines, and next steps.

We look forward to bringing the power of service to more communities across Ohio!


[A picture containing text    Description automatically generated]
Janet Ingraham Dwyer
Youth Services Library Consultant
Library Programs & Development
State Library of Ohio
35 E. Chestnut St., Floor 5
Columbus, OH 43215-2477
614.644.6910
jdwyer at library.ohio.gov<mailto:jdwyer at library.ohio.gov>
library.ohio.gov<https://library.ohio.gov/>

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