Penguin PenPals
Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County
Innovation Synopsis
The Penguin Pen Pal Program created an opportunity for our young library patrons to form a connection with the Akron Zoo’s Humboldt Penguins through our free “take and make” postcard kits during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Patrons sent their postcards through us and checked our website for the penguins' personalized responses.
Challenge/Opportunity
The Pen Pal Program is an opportunity to safely engage with our patrons and their families during the pandemic as the "take and make" kits could be distributed in the Library's buildings or through curbside pickup. The program is also a tool to raise awareness of the Library, encourage early literacy and communication skills and promote the value of connection, which is critical in a time when we may feel disconnected and isolated for our broader community.
Key Elements of Innovation
The program is accessible for all patrons in our community as there is no fee for the “take and make” kit, and many in our community may not be able to travel to the Zoo, so this brought the experience of going to the Zoo into their homes in a personalized and individual experience. Penguins are also a community symbol for our area as they are the mascot of our local university.
Achieved Outcomes
After participating in the program, which distributed more than 500 kits, children are more confident in their literacy and communication skills. The program encouraged their imaginations and broadened their knowledge of a species and the environment in which penguins live.
