Library addition will help build young minds
Published 12:00 am Monday, October 31, 2005
DEMOPOLIS – The children of Demopolis can look forward to having their very own area at the Demopolis Public Library.
As of right now, the children’s area is in a corner on the first floor, but library directors are taking steps to transform the second floor of the building into the official children’s section.
“It was originally designed to be an overflow area,” library director Lindsy Gardner said about the second floor. “But I wanted to put the children’s books and computers together.”
Where there was once an open floor, a large wood desk complete with shelving and a small display case has been added.
Whereas bookshelves used to extend to the back wall of the kitchen, some shelves have been removed and a new office for children’s librarian, Connie McPherson, has been added.
The original door to the kitchen has turned into a wall and the only kitchen entrance is through McPherson’s office.
“I’ll be working up here all the time,” McPherson said. “So this will be my home.”
A laminator, die-cut machine, plenty of desk space and empty containers are currently the only things in the office, but McPherson said she will soon fill it up with crafting supplies and other necessities.
Area artist Amos Kennedy will create signs to decorate the area and Kurt Brooker is expected to create a coordinating mural, according to Gardner.
McPherson said six computers and desks will be added to the area and there will be portable audio devices so children can listen to music or audio books.
Gardner also plans to add an activity area with LeapPad Learning Systems and other educational toys.
There will also be a seating section for parents to enjoy time with their children.
“I want to have a room where parents and children can read and enjoy books together,” Gardner said. “I hope people will come in and spend time with their families.”