Hitting the Books: It's a Family Affair at the Ramona Branch Library

A Ramona mother is praising the local branch library for helping her to educate her big brood.

"I homeschool my children and the library has been an invaluable resource," Jackie Schwantner says. "We use the study rooms in the new library too; it makes it so much easier for the kids to focus."


The Schwantner family numbers a baker's dozen—11 kids, plus Mom and Dad. They share a singular love of learning. 

Noah, 11, likes action books. Hannah, 14, reads graphic novels and books about arts and crafts. Gloria, 12, likes that she can request books from other libraries on any subject or genre. John, 18, says that the library is "accommodating and welcoming," while Rachel, 9, says that the library is "a nice place to hang out." 

Schwantner says the kids also take advantage of the library's "Homework Help" program to get a little extra assistance tackling their homeschool assignments.

The San Diego County Library is profiling the family as part of national Library Card Sign-Up Month and is urging "everyone to sign up for what is sure to be the most valuable card in your wallet."

The system's 35 locations provide access to 42 million books, movies, and music CDs, along with over 24,000 programs each year—all for free. To sign up, visit www.sdcl.org.