Miss Melissa takes library story time online

HURON – Melissa Harrington misses "her kids." Harrington, who is the head of youth services at the Huron Public Library, related her feelings to how teachers are currently feeling. Trustees of the Huron Public Library closed the library March 16 for three weeks, after Gov. Mike DeWine closed all Ohio schools as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus, according to a statement from the library. Several libraries across Erie County also closed. Things came to an abrupt halt. Harrington had to inform patrons about the cancellation of programs. "At one point, it was late at night, and I was thinking, 'Oh my gosh, I'm not going to see any of my kids, families or patrons for at least three weeks,'" she said. "I do a service for the public and to cancel 30-plus programs, I'm getting teary-eyed just thinking about it. It really struck me hard because they're my family." Harrington sees families weekly and sometimes daily. She said she provides fun, educational and literacy-based programs. Harrington couldn't think about anything but how she could serve the public during the closure. She needed to do something. Harrington went to her director with a "crazy" idea. She wanted to take materials home so she could do a live video of story time for the patrons. After getting the OK, Harrington gathered several books and props from the library. At 1 p.m. Monday through Friday on the Huron Public Library's Facebook page, Harrington has story time from her home. It became a family affair. Her daughter, Joslyn, 15, records the video. Harrington's husband, Casey, is occasionally a guest reader and their son, Cameron, 8, sits in the audience. "My son is like my hype man. I can see his facial expressions, so I know if I'm doing a good job," Harrington said. Harrington brings each story to life. She wants her face to read the excitement and seriousness of the story. Joslyn said what her mother is doing is great and she likes producing the videos, watching her read and doing different voices. "I enjoy doing the videos with my family, but it also gives me meaning," Harrington said. "It makes me value my job even more." Harrington said she tries to pick books that have a good theme or something funny. She also respects copyright by asking publishers or authors permission to read their books online. During each story time, Harrington goes through her usual routine: chimes, glasses, listening dust, book introduction, "Open Shut Them," story, game or questions and finally, goodbye friends. "I think routine is important in anyone's lifestyle, especially for story time because I only have them for 30 minutes," Harrington said. Harrington said her story times are not just for kids. She's doing it to reach all ages. She wants to stay active in the lives of library patrons. Several viewers left comments on Harrington's video from Friday. Rita Templeton: Miss Melissa is such a valuable asset to our community. And what she's doing is especially important right now, because she brings familiarity and joy. She is the calm in a storm for our kids. Sherry Oddo Baum: I love watching her. And I'm a Gramma, sitting here by myself. Lauren Bork: Miss Melissa helps all of our kids feel loved, heard and understood. Even social distancing can't take that away. Becky Painter: Emmy and Evie love seeing a familiar, and always smiling, face. They light up and come running when I tell them it is time for (virtual) story time with Miss Melissa. They send many snuggles. Stefanie Pahl-Kopke: You brighten our day. You have no idea how much we look forward to story time with you. You take us to a happy place in such a sad time. We love you dearly. Friends encourage Harrington by sending her videos of their families watching story time. It gives Harrington reassurance she's doing something right. "I do want to give a shoutout to the staff, my director and board of trustees because they have reached out and have been really positive and have given me words of affirmation. It's amazing for a staff to support me that way," she said. Harrington understands families and friends are going through and unquestionable time. She hopes families are taking advantage of this time to reminisce about the good times and what it means to be a family. The Harrington family has played games and put together puzzles. "I'm a big planner. I love to schedule and know what's happening way in advance. My husband has been keeping me grounded and reminding me to take it one day at a time," Harrington said. "When parents, families and friends reach out to me, that's all I can tell them. Take it one day at a time and see the good in today." Want to watch? What: Online Story time LIVE with Miss Melissa When: 1 p.m. Monday-Friday through April 3 How: Huron Public Library's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/huronpl