Volunteer: Rachel Callahan

Rachel Callahan was in a pickle when she realized that she had outstanding fines on her library account. As a teenager with no job, she needed to find a way to reconcile her account, and decided to apply to OPL’s All Clear program. All Clear is a program offered to patrons ages 10-18 as a way to clear fines and maintain check out privileges while learning about responsibility and the value of volunteer service, as well as acquiring work experience at Omaha Public Library. Through the program, Callahan started volunteer work in October 2014 and had cleared her fines within two months. She decided to stay on as a volunteer with Willa Cather Branch. “I needed service hours for college applications,” said Callahan, “and I liked it. It seemed like everyone enjoyed having me there.” Callahan has worked on a variety of tasks at OPL, including helping to prepare materials for Summer Reading Program events and shelving books. “She has done everything we have asked willingly and cheerfully,” said Willa Cather Branch children’s librarian Lori Pitman. This fall, Callahan will be a freshman at Washington University in St. Louis studying chemistry and believes her experience as an OPL volunteer will serve her well. “Volunteering has taught me how to better follow directions, listen and practice strong work ethic,” said Callahan. Callahan’s contributions to OPL are much appreciated and we wish her all the best in her next adventure. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering at OPL, visit your neighborhood branch to inquire about available opportunities. More information about the All Clear Program is available at omahalibrary.org.