Pelham Memorial High School junior Eloise McGibbon has started a weekly drop-in tutoring program for students in Kindergarten through sixth grade that runs Tuesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Town of Pelham Public Library.

Before the new effort began, McGibbon was already tutoring students at the high school during her free periods through her membership in the National Honor Society, and outside of school she often babysits children and helps them with their homework. Growing up going to the library once a week, she had an idea.

“The library is a great resource that many don’t take advantage of,” said McGibbon.

In December, she contacted the library about starting a drop-in tutoring program. After exchanging several emails, library officials offered McGibbon tables and materials as well as advertising across Pelham. 

Eight high school students have volunteered to help run the group. McGibbon said she plans to rotate the eight students through the sessions, with two volunteers per session. Volunteers receive service hours for their contributions. 

“My goal going into this was to give back to elementary school-aged kids and give teens a way to contribute to the community,” said McGibbon. She said future goals for the program include expanding it to include summer reading and having a larger number of kids coming weekly.