Rochester Reporter

Nearly two dozen young people from Rochester had the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. this summer through a program organized by the Rochester Public Library. The Safe to be Smart initiative allowed these students to explore various historical sites and museums in a three-day educational trip.

The excursion was made possible with support from the Friends & Foundation of the Rochester Public Library, the Konar Foundation, and Reynolds Library. This effort marked the first time a public library in the area has facilitated such a trip for students, aiming to connect classroom and library learning with real-world experiences.

Mayor Malik D. Evans highlighted the importance of libraries as community resources, stating, "Our libraries are essential community resources, providing cultural and educational opportunities for our young people and their families." He expressed gratitude towards those who supported the initiative: "The Safe to be Smart program provides tangible, real-life experiences that inspire hope and expand minds to greater possibilities."

During their visit to Washington, D.C., twenty students toured significant landmarks including the National Museum of African American History and Culture; Library of Congress; U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum; Howard University; and memorials dedicated to Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., and WWII veterans.

Zamaria Harmon, one of the participants, shared her experience: “The Safe to Be Smart trip to D.C. was amazing,” she said. "The highlight of my trip was the Holocaust Museum. It taught me a lot and made me realize the hardships that many Jewish people endured."

Initially planned before COVID-19 but delayed due to the pandemic, this trip remained a priority for library staff committed to offering meaningful experiences for youth involved in the program. George Carter from Sully Branch Library spearheaded this initiative: “We are always seeking ways to expose teens to new experiences," he stated.

Carter emphasized his belief in planning positive activities for children: “I’m a firm believer that if you don’t have a plan for your children, someone else does.” The Safe to be Smart program offers programming at several branch libraries across Rochester.

This initiative provided participants aged 13-17 with an enriching opportunity they are likely never to forget.