Yoncalla’s library helps students of all ages and offers an innovative kindergarten preparedness program.

At the Douglas County Library in Yoncalla, branch manager Jill Cunningham has seen the transformative effect the library has on local residents looking to improve their lives through education or new jobs.

Students continuing their schooling through online GED and university degree programs can take tests at the library, with Cunningham serving as an official proctor.

A kindergarten preparedness project coordinated with Early Works, a program at Yoncalla Elementary, provides family nights that pair fun with learning games for children and early literacy tips for parents.

“You just see (change) happening with these families that we know personally,” Cunningham said. “It’s more than just statistics, it’s lives that are being changed.”