The Somerset County Library System of New Jersey’s (SCLSNJ) Hillsborough branch has kicked off the school year with kindness.
“The public library serves as a vital space for connection and support, and I believe that uplifting notes and affirmations can greatly enhance our shared environment,” said Julie Ucelli, teen librarian. “Personally, I have found that positive messages can brighten my day, and I aimed to create a similar experience for others.”
The branch has installed a kindness board which will host messages from community members in order to foster a spirit of kindness within the community.
“The board has already received contributions from many individuals, and I look forward to encouraging our teen volunteers to add their own messages of positivity as well,” Ucelli added.
A few notes from the kindness display include:
- “You are beautiful and so is the world.”
- “You are brave! You can do this!”
- “Remember to pay it forward and be grateful!”
- “Flowers grow even in the valley! There is beauty in the struggle!”
Ucelli recommends these kindness-centered teen reads, with the gentle reminder that even adults can read teen books!
- “Channel Kindness: Stories of Kindness and Community” by Lady Gaga.
- “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Teens” by Amy Newmark.
- “Positively Teen: A Practical Guide to a More Positive, More Confident You” by Nicola Morgan.
- “Take in the Good: Skills for Staying Positive and Living Your Best Life” by Gina M. Biegel.
- “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens on the Go: Wisdom for Teens to Build Confidence, Stay Positive, and Live an Effective Life” by Sean Covey.
- “Poems to Live Your Life By” by Chris Riddell.
- “Simple Acts: The Busy Teen’s Guide to Making a Difference” by Natalie Silverstein.
- “The Kid’s Guide to Service Projects: Over 500 Service Ideas for Young People Who Want to Make a Difference” by Barbara A. Lewis.
Additional reading recommendations are available any time; email ask@sclibnj.org for curated suggestions.
The Hillsborough branch is located at 379 South Branch Road in Hillsborough. For questions, call (908) 458-8420 or email hillsborough@sclibnj.org. To discover all SCLSNJ has to offer, visit SCLSNJ.org.
