In Sotteville-sur-Mer, a charming town near Dieppe, 17-year-old Éléonore Claire spent her summer in an unconventional way by taking on the role of a librarian. This opportunity came through a local initiative, “Tope là,” offered by the Seine-Maritime Department, providing young people with a financial boost of €400 for projects like obtaining a driving license.
Éléonore, who aspires to get her driving license, eagerly embraced the position at the Sotteville-sur-Mer library for the month of July. As a rising high school senior with a passion for literature and community service, the role was a perfect fit for her.
Her introduction to the library was during the bustling “Festival du Lin,” which marked her first days on the job with a large turnout of visitors. Despite the library’s traditional, non-digital operations, Éléonore adeptly managed the system, recording borrowed books on paper cards and handling returns with enthusiasm.
Visitors, mostly regulars, were pleasantly surprised to see someone so young in charge. Éléonore enjoyed engaging with them, especially during the well-received local exhibition titled “In Sotteville, We Have Water.” Her dedication to community improvement has seen her actively participating in local youth councils, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference.
Éléonore’s experience as a librarian not only supported her driving ambitions but also deepened her connection with literature and public service, leaving a positive mark on her summer vacation.
