Giving Rye: Meet the Rye Free Reading Room
Giving Rye is a feature series highlighting non-profits and community groups in and around the City of Rye. Today meet Chris Shoemaker of the Rye Free Reading Room.
Your Name: Chris Shoemaker
Organization: Rye Free Reading Room
Your role: Director
MyRye.com: Tell us your organization’s mission.
Shoemaker: The Rye Free Reading Room serves as a dynamic gathering place and center for lifelong learning for Rye residents of all ages and interests. We do that through our collections and programming, welcoming all Rye residents into our physical and virtual spaces.
How long have you operated in Rye?
Shoemaker: 140 years, since 1884!
What programming or work in Rye is the organization best known for?
Shoemaker:
- Wiggle Giggle with Dawny Dew – I think all new families find their way to the library and check out Dawny Dew. Not only is it a high energy music and story session for kids, but it’s a great way for new residents to connect to their neighbors.
- Board of Trustees Spelling Bee – As we look to the 7th annual spelling bee in 2025, middle schoolers and high schoolers are practicing their spelling to get ready. And 4th and 5th graders will have their own division too!
- Library Collections – reading is at the heart of what we do, so you can curl up with a new release or an old favorite, or download titles for on the go access. From books to audiobooks to movies and magazines, we’re the content hub for the community.
Looking forward to 2025, what will be your top initiatives?
Shoemaker:
- We’ll be working on the next phase of our strategic plan, as the current one ends in 2025. We’ve gotten great feedback from the community in our community needs survey, and we’ll be reaching out to key organizations across Rye for conversations as we plan for the future
Tell us about the population you serve and how they can get involved with your programming and services.
Shoemaker: We serve everyone in Rye – from babies to seniors, with a wide variety of collections, events, and spaces. Quiet study spaces, early childhood literacy resources, areas to socialize with friends, and so much more are all available at the library. Book clubs, cooking programs, one-on-one technology help, notary services – we’re here to help out, to educate and inspire you.
Are you a 501(c)(3) non-profit with tax exempt status?
Shoemaker: Yes
Looking back across 2024, what were your organization’s top achievements?
Shoemaker: This year we unveiled the brand new Discovery Zone, and it’s been exciting to see the community response. Having an active learning space in the library is a tremendous boon for parents and caregivers, and we often see 40 to 60 children and adults using the resources and books in the room. It’s the place to be throughout the day for sure!
How can local residents support your organization?
Shoemaker: The easiest way is to sign up for a library card and see what we have to offer. You can also become a Friend of the Library – donate to the annual campaign and support critical library services.
Tell us about you:
How long have you been in your current role?
Shoemaker: I’ve been here for just over 11 years.
Is the role full time or part time? Paid or volunteer?
Shoemaker: Being the library director is a paid full time job.
How would your friends and family describe you in one word?
Shoemaker: Engaging
Where did you grow up?
Shoemaker: I grew up in the Antelope Valley in California – it’s best known for once being the back-up location for space shuttle landings.
What is your favorite unimportant thing about you?
Shoemaker: I’m left handed, so anytime I do any crafts or home projects, scissors and crescent wrenches require some extra effort.
Where do you live in Rye and how many years have you lived in the City?
Shoemaker: I live in the Financial District in Manhattan.
Thanks Chris!
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