Chase Nichols Named CDL Teen Volunteer of the Year

Community News 

Chelsea District Library (CDL) is proud to announce Chelsea High School student, Chase Nichols, has been named CDL’s 2023 Youth Service Group (YSG) Volunteer of the Year. This award celebrates teens who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment while volunteering at the library. Chase was recognized by his peers at this year’s YSG orientation sessions and on a new plaque hanging in the library’s TeenSpace area. 

Chase is a nationally ranked chess player and approached CDL staff with the idea of running drop-in chess clinics. What started as a trial program grew to regular weekly attendance of 10–20 players. Chase sets up chess boards for people to play and provides tips and strategies on how to improve your game. Chase comes in early every Tuesday, and sets up tables and chessboards in the McKune Room, with the assistance of adult volunteer Glenn. Then, as the kids rush into the library after school, Chase arranges for them to play kids of the same or higher skill levels. He’s constantly walking the room, watching games, and giving tips. 

Youth & Teen Librarian Stacey reflects on Chase’s service, “When I was first approached about a volunteer-run chess clinic, I wasn’t sure about it. But I’ve been pleasantly surprised and in awe of Chase’s hard work. He’s built these clinics up from four kids in the booths by KidSpot, to twenty inside KidSpot, and now we have so many kids participating, we had to move them to McKune and the Reading Garden! Chase even recruited an adult volunteer to help.” 

CDL is always looking for new YSG members who are entering seventh grade or above. If you are an interested student or parent and want to find out more about YSG volunteer opportunities at CDL, visit the library website at chelseadistrictlibrary.org, and click on the How Do I…Become a Volunteer tab. Sign up today by filling out an application online. YSG volunteers help set up and clean up library programs, assist with running the Summer Reading Program, and support the youth & teen librarians. YSG volunteering is a great way to serve our community and meet new friends! Plus, as an added bonus, the group will finish the summer off with a fun party at Pierce Park.