As students walk into the Commons, looking for a space to decompress and enjoy their lunch, they are met with the warm welcome from the students and librarians at the monthly Chat and Chew.
About a week before the Chat and Chews happen, students can sign up through a google form that Tracy Miceli, Del Val librarian, sends out through email.
“As long as you sign up for it by 9 a.m. on the day of the Chat and Chew, you can come. I send the responses list to the main office and Ms. Val so they know,” Miceli said. “And you’re welcome to bring your lunch.”
During the Chat and Chews, students do a fun craft out of recycled materials while enjoying a snack. By the end, they get to keep any crafts they made.
“It’s just a welcoming space in the library, you know. We have snacks, we have activities,” Hunterdon County Teen Services Librarian Sara Pike said. “But really, it’s just that space for you to get away from everything else, and do what you want to do with another welcoming group of like-minded people.”
Students who attend the Chat and Chews every month have expressed it has a positive impact on them.
“It’s a really nice environment,” Madelyn Zepeda, Del Val senior, said. “It kind of makes me feel calm.”
Through the crafts and snacks, the Chat and Chews has become an event that students look forward to attend every month.
“I think it makes me really relaxed, because it gives you a break from all that’s going on at school,” Jazmin Santiago Ramos, Del Val senior, said.
The impact has not only reached the students but the librarians who help host them.
“The best part of my month is getting to one of the schools and getting to see you guys,” Pike said. “It’s like, this is why I’m a teen librarian. I can talk to you guys and help you guys. Once I’m in the schools, I get to see so many more of you and have that experience, so it’s much more rewarding.”
Every month other schools in the area like North Hunterdon High School, J.P Case Middle School and Hunterdon Central Regional High School, also get to experience their own Chat and Chews. In addition to the activities and socializing, students can learn about the different events happening at their local libraries.
“My main goal is one, is to create a safe space for you. Two, to make sure you guys are having fun. Three, make sure you guys have some food,” Pike said, “And four, to share activities and other resources at the public library that you have access to as students.”
The next Chat and Chew will be hosted on Nov. 4. Students can check their email for the link to sign up.
