Twin sisters, Sabrina and Fiona, were members of the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB). Before embarking on a new chapter and heading to college, they say down with Jolene, Teen Advisory Board President, to discuss their experiences as teen volunteers at the library.
"Sabrina and Fiona were wonderful members of our TAB and made a meaningful contribution to our library. During their time with us, they created beautiful book displays, helped set up for the sensory program, supported our Summer Reading Program, and helped many patrons through our weekly 3D printing program. They were always willing to help and were a great asset to our teen programs and volunteer team." - Talya A., Kirk-Bear Canyon Library
What are your thoughts and takeaways from TAB/volunteering?
Sabrina
I can communicate a lot better with strangers, and I learned so many new skills like drawing. I also got to work on better time management. I was terrified to sign up but it wasn’t that bad and I put myself out there. I also love the community of the library.
Fiona
I learned to stop and look at displays, and appreciate the work that goes into them. I can also talk to people better; I have better communication skills. I learned Tinkercad and Cricut, as well as office skills.
What is the library community like?
Sabrina
It’s very supportive and welcoming. I would want to work in a similar environment in the future.
Fiona
With programs like Cozy Crafters and 3D Printing, it’s nice to see people come back. It is cool getting to cooperate with other teens as well.
What was your favorite part of volunteering?
Sabrina
My favorite part was meeting new people and shelving. I really like shelving. You should definitely volunteer at the library. You won’t regret it.
Fiona
Making art was nice; I liked shelving and paging slips. I learned to appreciate the library more, and the other volunteers are really nice.
How’d you get involved?
Sabrina and Fiona
We showed up to the Jewelry Making TAB program.
What made you stay involved?
Sabrina
I liked volunteering here, the community, and everything I could do.
How did you enjoy 3D printing?
Sabrina
I am more comfortable talking to strangers. I started a club in 2024 and was nervous recruiting people, but in 2025 [after starting 3D Printing], I did it again and it was much easier.
Fiona
Chaotic, but I like creating things with the children. It’s nice that everyone could show up to do it.
What are your favorite memories?
Sabrina
I liked making buttons and the art for displays, like the fire pony for the Lunar New Year display. I also liked when we passed the shelving test. I remember setting up for Cozy Crafters and chatting [with other volunteers], which was one of my favorite parts. I got to volunteer at Dusenberry-River Library to help with Summer Reading when the floors were being redone at Kirk-Bear Canyon, which was a cool change of pace.
Fiona
I liked making the Lunar New Year fire pony. One time a father and son came in for 3D printing and both were really enthusiastic, which was cool. It’s fun seeing people you know, like my neighbors and some kids I’ve babysat.
What are you most proud of in your time here?
Sabrina
I liked doing the Latin American urban legends display, painting the box and writing the story in spanish.
Fiona
I’m proud of 3D Printing and how successful it is.
How has volunteering impacted you?
Sabrina
I have more confidence and independence than I had before volunteering here.
What skills or lessons will you bring into the future?
Fiona
I learned printer and USB skills.
What are your plans after graduation?
Sabrina
I’m heading to college undeclared, and I’ll probably go into math.
Fiona
I’m going to college as an Art History major, and I’ll also study Spanish.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering?
Fiona
Do it! It will be so much fun.
What advice would you give to a new teen volunteer?
Sabrina
I would say be committed, and show up. Everyone is really nice and welcoming, and you’ll get to try a lot of new things.
What will you miss most?
Fiona
The people, definitely.
What is your favorite book/author?
Sabrina
I love Coldwire by Chloe Gong.
Fiona
I like The Secret History by Donna Tartt.
Do you know a young adult who might be interested in volunteering? Share this link!
