A fuzzy friend entertained children at the Bethlehem Public Library earlier this month as part of the facility’s youth literacy program. Teri Conroy of Wunsapana Farm in Guilderland brought one of her llama’s, Miss Tank, for a visit on Friday, May 8. The program included an informational session on llamas, and a reading of Anna Dewdney’s book “Is Your Mama a Llama?” Kids were also able pet and have their picture taken with Miss Tank at the end of the event. “I don’t know what delights people more at these events, seeing the llamas or seeing the llamas in the library,” said library Director Geoff Kirkpatrick. The first visit was in 2013, and Conroy brought two llamas with her. The program was supposed to be held for the lids outside, however the heat was an issue for the two animals’ safety. The event was going to be canceled, but Fitzpatrick offered to let the llamas come inside, since he knew they were house broken. The program has been held indoors in the continuing years, and has been well attended.
“Anytime there’s a program with animals, it’s usually pretty popular with people,” said Kirkpatrick. Librarian and Llamas Live! coordinator Michelle Waldenmaier said she first met Conroy while visiting the farm for a Girl Scouts event. She knew Conroy to be a big-hearted person who has done a lot of outreach work in the community, so she asked if she would be interested in coming to the library. So far the program has been a great success. “With so many great llama books for kids… it makes it not just a petting zoo event – it’s a tie in to literacy,” said Waldenmaier. “Making literacy come alive like this is a great way to engage children in reading.” Waldenmaier said the kids are typically in awe of the size of the llamas, particularly Miss Tank, since she is a large llama. A lot of people are also interested in the fact that the llama has no “bathroom issue” when it’s indoors. “The llamas are so regal when they bend down to kiss the children. They are such friendly, gentle animals,” said Waldenmaier.