These members of the Kingston American Legion Junior Auxiliary all helped with the Little Free Library project. Caitlyn Atkinson built the structure, under the supervision of her grandfather Dale Atkinson. From left are Courtney Atkinson (vice president of the Junior Auxiliary), Zionna Schrader, Lily Turja, Emme Gedde, Stella Turja, Caitlyn Atkinson, and Lily Jahnke. Not pictured is Josie Gedde. Staff photos by Jean Doran Matua.
Thursday, Aug. 23, was the opening of the Little Free Library located at the Kingston Mini Mart.
Caitlyn Atkinson made the Little Free Library, a 4-H project, and it was shown at the Meeker County Fair. She spoke at the opening and began by thanking Jim and Kristie Orn for suggesting the Little Free Library and providing the post and space. Caitlyn also thanked her grandfather Dale Atkinson who made this project possible through his advice, skills and materials needed for the project. She also thanked the Junior Auxiliary for sponsoring this challenge. Girls in the Junior Auxiliary will refill the Little Free Library and rotate the books from an ample supply of donated books.
When Jim and Kristie suggested this project, the American Legion Junior Auxiliary was jumping at the chance to make Kingston stronger. At the time they were looking for a community project. The Junior Auxiliary not only focuses on veterans and active military, but on expanding and helping the community. They thought the Little Free Library would benefit the community in many ways. It would bring everyone together and would interest children in reading and education. So, they thank everyone involved, overall.
Caitlyn’s project was entered at the Meeker County Fair through 4-H, and it won a blue ribbon.
Caitlyn is 15 and a sophomore at Hutchinson. She is president of the Kingston Legion Junior Auxiliary. She and her family live near Kingston.