City Of West Palm Beach: WPB Wins! Javontae Williams: From Program Attendee To Library Page And Beyond

Press release from the City of West Palm Beach:

07/09/2021 10:30 AM

Javontae Williams attending programs, volunteering, and celebrating his high school graduation at the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach

WEST PALM BEACH, FLA (July 9, 2021) – Javontae Williams, Library Page and recent graduate of Palm Beach Lakes High School, will spend one last summer with the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach before heading to the University of Florida in the fall. When Javontae Williams was 14 years old, he spent his summer at the Mandel Public Library. He helped care for his two younger half-siblings, attended teen library programs, and volunteered to help librarians with programs and the free meal service.

The Mandel Public Library typically hosts 30-40 teen volunteers each summer, but Javontae stood out. When he saw librarians picking up toys off the floor, he bent down to help. Always observant and considerate, even when he was not on the volunteer clock, he stepped in when it looked like someone could use assistance. Throughout the school year, he attended the library’s Teen Homework Center for help with studies and even volunteered to assist younger students.

When Javontae turned 16 years old, librarians encouraged him to apply for his first job at the library. Two summers after he began volunteering, he was hired by the City of West Palm Beach as a Library Page. Since then, he has assisted librarians with numerous programs including author visits, STEAM events, and community outreach.

As Javontae’s confidence grew, he became involved with numerous clubs and service organizations. While studying at Palm Beach Lakes High School’s Medical Academy Program, Javontae was Key Club president and a National Honor Society member.

This press release was produced by the City of West Palm Beach. The views expressed here are the author’s own.