The future of Wayne County engaged with those tasked with protecting our community on Monday afternoon as the Wayne County Public Library hosted the inaugural “Books and Badges,” event in collaboration with the Goldsboro Police Department.
Officers from the Goldsboro Police Department read four different children’s books and took questions from the audience, as the eager youth looked on in excitement.
The “Books and Badges” program came together in part thanks to off-duty officers who provide security at the Wayne County Public Library in the evenings.
“We actually have some off-duty officers who provide security for us at the library in the evening,” said new Wayne County Public Library Children’s Librarian Varin Worthington. “One of the officers helped put this program together. We’re very excited and grateful for the response from the Goldsboro Police Department.”
After hearing stories read by four different members of the Goldsboro Police Department, children were allowed to step outside and sit behind the wheel of a police car.
Despite increased crime in the community over the last six to seven weeks, the Goldsboro Police Department continues to be a visible presence throughout the county. “Coffee With a Cop,” events continue to be a regular occurrence, and there is optimism that “Books and Badges,” will become a highly anticipated monthly event.
“This is 100 percent important,” said Sgt. Steve Powers of the Goldsboro Police Department. “This is when we’re giving back to the community, and letting the kids see us. We want them to know we’re here for a purpose, and the purpose is to help them. Some kids were very hesitant to come up to us at first, but now they’re coming up and hugging us. We’ve got to continue to get out there and let people know why we’re here. We’re here to help people.
“Books and Badges” is held at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month through April.
