Polk County High School junior Tyler Johnson had just begun his search for a summer job when his high school counselor mentioned an internship at the Polk County Public Library. I figured it would be a great opportunity to stay busy over the summer and give me some job experience, Johnson says.

Thanks to a grant from the Polk County Community Foundations Summer Intern program, local students are able to intern in several area non-profits. The Polk County Public Library has employed several students over the years to assist with the Summer Reading Program.

Johnson already had some experience working with children. The Wolverine football player spent last spring helping kids at Tryon Elementary School, tutoring reading and math.

I really like working with kids, Johnson says. Especially helping children learn. Its nice to know that youve taught a child something they didnt know before.

Johnson has covered many facets of operation within the library. Not only has he been instrumental in assisting with the Summer Reading Program, he has been a photographer, written press releases, conducted storytimes at local day camps and helped out at the circulation desk.

My favorite part of this internship was working with and helping people, Johnson says.&bsp; Answering peoples questions, helping them find the books theyre looking for, helping kids learn about the library has all been enjoyable to me.

Johnsons plans after high school include college and possibly a career in sports journalism.&bsp; But he knows that whatever path he chooses, he will be spending lots more time in the library.&bsp; Ive learned so much about the different ways to access information in the library, that Im sure I will be coming back often!