Teen Volunteer Nights at Warren Township Library

Local teenagers can help librarians and have some fun at the next Teen Volunteer Project night at the Warren Township Library Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m..

The Teen Volunteer Project, is open to sixth- to 12th-graders who want to assist the library for about an hour on certain weeknights on a monthly basis during the school. Young Adult Librarian Laura Frantz, who oversaw similar programs at other libraries, brought the concept to the Warren library last spring. The Volunteer Project  has attracted students who need community service credit or just want to volunteer some time.

"It gives kids the opportunity to come and do some creative things that help us out," said Frantz.

Students can sign up for one or several Volunteer Nights if they choose. Duties go beyond stocking shelves to using the AccuCut machine to cut shapes for decorative library displays; making nametags for the children's story times, and  putting together craft materials for programs.

"We try to keep it interesting," said Antonette D'Orazio, head of youth services at the library.

Allison Isherwood, 12, started helping put books away when she was at the library doing her homework and then decided to sign up for a Teen Volunteer Night.

"I just thought it would be fun and I tried it and I liked it," said Isherwood, who has been to five volunteer nights.

"I like helping there because they have a lot of stuff that needs to get done and not a lot of people to do it," said Isherwood, who also enjoys meeting new people through her volunteer work.

Isherwood, who enjoys horseback riding in her spare time, said her favorite volunteer job is the Accu-Cut machine because she can be creative, making snowflakes and flowers among other decorations.

Her mother also is happy that she has a creative outlet that also is helpful to the library.

"This is good for her," said Diana Isherwood, adding that her daughter has made friends while volunteering. "I'm proud of her."

In addition to the April 20 volunteer night, there will be two more events: May 31 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. and June 7 from 7 to 8 p.m. Then the program will resume in the fall. Kids can sign up online at the Warren Township Library's event calendar or call Frantz at the library at (908) 754-5554, ext. 59.