The central idea behind the Service-in-Action Nook initiative is to help foster civic engagement as communities look for ways to involve residents – especially youth – in meaningful activities.

Our organizations share a commitment to strengthening our communities through education, remembrance, and civic engagement. By partnering to promote civic service, both institutions can connect people with opportunities to learn about their community, honor those who have served, and discover meaningful ways to contribute themselves. Together, we can demonstrate that service takes many forms – and that everyone has a role to play in building a stronger community.

This initiative innovates the library field by moving civic engagement from something people learn about to something they actively practice at the library. The Service-in-Action Nooks combine storytelling, literacy, hands-on learning, and community service in one experience. Customers encounter veterans’ and community members’ stories, explore books about service, participate in activities and then can take the next step by designing and tracking their own service projects.

Inspired by the lived experiences of U.S. military veterans, the Service-in-Action Nook empowers participants to learn from veterans’ stories, reflect on the meaning of service, and take measurable steps that strengthen civic connection and community well-being. These dedicated spaces celebrate service in all its forms, from military to community action.

The initiative began with three nooks: one at our Main Library, one that moves periodically between other library locations, and one at the NVMM.

To date, we have seen 3,990 acts of service completed. This ranges from thank you letters and kindness cards to the assembly of hygiene kits and welcome home signs.

To prepare for the opening of the nook at our Karl Road Branch, we partnered with a nearby early learning center and invited the children to create thank-you letters for veterans. We also invited veterans from a nearby senior living community to join us for the opening. During the program, the children personally presented their cards and posters to the veterans in attendance.

It was a simple interaction, but it demonstrated exactly what the Service-in-Action Nook partnership is designed to accomplish. The library became a bridge between two groups who were part of the same neighborhood but might not otherwise have connected. Children were able to turn what they had learned about service and gratitude into a meaningful action, while veterans experienced firsthand how their service resonates with a younger generation.

Supporting Materials:

• WBNS 10 News: "Whitehall library adds 'Service in Action Nook'"
• CML Facebook Post: "Today, we welcomed Honor Flight veterans to see our new Service in Action Nook, a display at Main Library that celebrates the many ways people serve our community
  Made possible by The National Veterans Memorial and Museum and Nationwide, the nook features books and stories of service – from military to community action – along with a letter writing station for anyone who wants to send a note to local veterans."