by Holly Schaffer, Communications Specialist
Upon their first visit to Eckstrom-Columbus Library, twin brothers Max and Mikey, age 14, were asked by their Grandma Bonnie how it went. Unsurprisingly they told her it was great. Well, it’s been two years since then and in their words, “Here we are!”
And in those two years, the brothers became deeply involved with the library. They attend summer programs, play Dungeons & Dragons, and participate in other activities, including Jenga.
“Max,” said Mikey, “built the tallest tower at the library. It was ten feet! He needed a step ladder to reach the top.”
They also play chess, something they were relatively new to before starting at the library. By now, they’re not only part of Chess Club, but they’re also mentoring others.
“Chess helps us connect with people,” they told me.
Max takes chess pretty seriously. Once, when he lost to Mikey, he didn’t speak to him for the rest of the evening. “I woke up better, though,” he said.
Beyond chess, Jenga, video games, and more, Max volunteers to help with art and crafts on Saturdays. He said, “I love meeting and helping the little ones in the library. I like to make sure they know what’s happening and feel comfortable.” He also stocks books, decorates boxes at the self-checkout area, and really, “Anything else that needs to be done,” he told me.
On Fridays, Mikey helps make sure Read to a Dog with Logan—a poodle, golden retriever mix—runs smoothly.
Outside the library, Mikey’s time is spent in Boy Scouts and swimming. Max plays the piano and had a recital at the library.
“I asked the librarian if I could have a recital in one of the meeting rooms,” he said. He was granted permission and within weeks, friends and family gathered to listen to him play holiday favorites, including “Jingle Bells,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and the Charlie Brown theme.
The boys had a lot to tell me about the things they like. Max mentioned quite a few books, including The Wild Robot and the Trials of Apollo and the Wings of Fire series. He also brought up Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series. “He goes on cool adventures I could picture myself doing. Plus, he’s 14 so I can relate.”
Mikey, who read The Poison Jungle (Wings of Fire #13) in just five days and enjoys Norse mythology and short stories, has a strong opinion about books being turned into movies. He said, “If you’re going to make one, the author has to be consulted if they’re around to be consulted.”
They both love animation. When I asked why, Max remarked, “There’s so much you can do with it. There’s no limits of the human body. It’s as creative as you can imagine and draw.”
We spoke quite a bit. Mikey spent a considerable amount of time educating me about War Hammer, including the Space Marines—genetically engineered super soldiers from the 40,000 universe. “They have two hearts.! Three lungs! They’re nine feet tall!”
Speaking of War Hammer, Mikey plans to spend the money from his first job on miniature War Hammer figurines. “I’ll also need paint and glue,” he said. “It’s a very precise art.”
We continued chatting about video games, music, and school subjects, but it eventually returned to the library. I asked them why they keep coming back. Without hesitation, they told me, “It’s got a little bit of everything. It’s a good place when you’re not at home. It’s got computer games, activities, free WiFi, and books.”
I agree wholeheartedly! And Max and Mikey, you’re welcome anytime!
