Friendly Reminder: If you complete this activity, it counts towards an activity badge for Summer Library Challenge. Make sure you go to Beanstack or talk to a staff member to mark your activity!
Earlier this month, I wrote a blog post about one of my very favorite hobbies: letter writing. And today, I wanted to take that idea a step further and talk about a wonderful new initiative at the library: the Dear Elders Mailbox. This is a sweet and simple way to send a smile to a lonely person in your community. Simply pick up a card from the handy station at the front of the library (right next to the Free Little Art Gallery), write a heartfelt message, and drop it into the box.
Of course, as with anything, there are a few rules and guidelines to keep in mind when writing your letter. First, make sure that your handwriting is “large print” and easy to read. If you feel more comfortable typing something, you’re welcome to do that, too! Also, please avoid anything (1) religious, (2) political, or (3) otherwise controversial. Since you don’t know who your letter is going to, it’s best to make sure that what you write is something that anyone will enjoy.
Also, please don’t include personal information like a phone number or email, since we don’t want to pressure anyone to feel like they need to respond. Think of this as one-way correspondence, kind of like a message in a bottle, except instead of asking for rescue, you’re just sharing a little bit about your day.
Other than that, the sky’s the limit! Have fun decorating your letter. Perhaps make your own card using colorful paper, stamps, or markers. But, please avoid glitter! As pretty as it is, glitter has a tendency to get everywhere, and we don’t all share the same level of appreciation for it.
Still don’t know what to talk about? Here are a few ideas: Talk about the changing of the seasons, a favorite book, what you did this past weekend, or your pets. You can include little bonuses, like a crossword puzzle or a poem. If you’re a student, talk about your favorite class. Or talk about a hobby that you love or something you’re learning about. What’s the fun fact you always share during ice breaker games? Perhaps that’s just the thing to share! Are you learning Japanese? Do you enjoy woodcarving? That could be a fun topic to elaborate on for a few lines.
Regardless of what you write or how much you include, the important thing is to take your time and put together something that will make your pen pal feel extra special! Thank you for all you do to spread sunshine! 🌞
