Creative Learning Center Invites Play in Amery

Thanks to YSS Member and Youth Services Librarian in Amery, Jerissa Christianson for this guest post:

The Amery Area Public Library recently installed a dynamic play space called "Bud's Creative Learning Center" in the children's room of the library. The new space includes a puppet theater, a dress-up center, a play kitchen, a versatile canopy unit that is currently being used as a grocery store, a magnet board, a Thomas the Train table (not pictured), and a block play area. In addition, we purchased toys, games, and props that we will rotate in and out of the play area that encourage the practice of STEM-related skills. For example, children can view encased creatures such as butterflies and a scorpion (!) using jumbo magnifiers, or they can test their color and number skills with a fun, wooden sorting game.

So far, the new space is a giant hit with children and families. Boys and girls alike have been dressing up and chefs, construction workers, police officers, etc. and cooking up something fierce in the kitchen or buying vegetables and bread from the grocery store. The families who engage in play are staying longer and smiling often. Parents are saying that their children can't wait to come to the library.

This project was made possible by funds generously donated in memory of Bud Nelson, a long-time library supporter. Special thanks to Shelly Collins-Fuerbringer of the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library for her guidance in the early stages of this process and for sharing her knowledge of and experiences with library play spaces.