Catherine DiLeo and Sienna Tracey are doing more than just keeping kids entertained at the Westwood Public Library — they’re helping build a brighter future for the Pascack Valley.
Although the library’s children’s programming has long been a community staple, DiLeo and Tracey revitalized it after stepping into their roles less than a year ago. Using feedback from a survey, they enhanced current offerings and launched exciting new programs. These include a reimagined Movers & Shakers program and a new Design It class, where kids use everyday materials to create something uniquely their own.
This summer, the library offers a full schedule of fun and educational activities for all ages. For younger children, programs like Little Explorers combine crafts and storytelling, while Mini Builders and Play-Doh Fun encourage creativity and tactile play.
Older children can enjoy the programs at the Westwood Public Library, too. The Nintendo Switch Club, held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month, invites kids in grades 6–8 to socialize and play games. If your child is a movie lover, then the library’s Teen Movie Trivia Night on August 8th is also a great option as teens go head-to-head to answer movie questions to win great prizes.
For August, Dileo is launching a new book club for middle schoolers, kicking off at 6 pm on August 18th. It’s a great way for kids to discover new books — and a love of reading — just in time for back-to-school season.
While most of the Westwood Public Library’s programs will continue into the fall, their biggest event is ending soon. Westwood Public Library’s Summer Reading Scavenger Hunt, based on their theme of Color Our World and run by the Friends of the Westwood Public Library, started back in June and ends August 22nd.
The rules of the hunt are simple: scan the QR code at each location and watch the video featuring a Pascack Valley community member. Once that is done, you simply color the provided board and use the clues to find the next location. Not only does it allow you to be entered into a raffle for a new iPad, but it also showcases all of the amazing places and people within our community.
Whether you are able to visit the Westwood Public Library in person or not. Dileo encourages residents to follow the library on social media and sign up for the newsletter to stay connected.
Their digital resources are also always available, allowing you access to audiobooks, e-books, and online movies anytime you need them. If you want a physical book but cannot come during normal hours, the Westwood Public Library also has lockers that residents can use for after-hours pickup.
DiLeo and Tracey find meaning in their work every day — from watching kids grow and develop, to helping the library serve as a central part of community life.
For Dileo, seeing the library become that hub of local life makes each moment so rewarding.
“I love being part of that energy and knowing that what we’re doing really matters to people,” Dileo stated, “It’s also really special to see how the library brings the whole community together. Whether it's a packed event, a quiet afternoon visit, or just neighbors bumping into each other, the library becomes a shared space where everyone belongs. That’s what makes it all worth it.”
Tracey echoes this sentiment, her work giving her a front row seat to see the community thrive.
“Every day I go to work knowing I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's day,” Tracey mentioned, “whether it's by helping them with technology, offering a creative outlet through programming, or simply listening to their stories. Most days, I'm lucky enough to leave work feeling satisfied that I did. The sense of community is one of the things I love most about this library, and I'm grateful to feel like I’ve made a meaningful contribution to it.”
For more information on the library’s programs, visit westwoodpubliclibrary.org or follow them on Instagram @westwoodpubliclibrary.
"Whether it's a packed event, a quiet afternoon visit, or just neighbors bumping into each other, the library becomes a shared space where everyone belongs." - Catherine Dileo