While going to get my passport settled for the next phase of my life, I had the joy of seeing how much my son loves our local library. I do too, mostly for the friendly staff and ability to obtain nearly any book... Today I want to highlight something through smaller eyes though...
The magical play area that lives there!
It's awesome to interact with librarians for official documents, vs. worn out state employees... It's even better when your kiddo can have some fun at the same time! Ah, the joys of the library systems in the US! A rare bureaucratic "treat"!
What would you see at my local library if you were a kid?
An abundant and inviting space that highlights various geographical locations (If maybe with many faults). I think this space is a bit dated, but also allows kids to explore. The books are nestled into the play area, leaving them (mostly) safe from rampaging kiddos.
This is probably my son's favorite room at this location, and I can get why.
Along with this train table, there are a variety of activities in this portion of the kid's area.
I couldn't photograph most of this space, as the last thing I want to do is make other families uncomfortable, or snap photos of other people's children...
I do want to appreciate our library though, and what it means that my community has this area provided to them.
We have educational workshops for kids here, help for those acquiring citizenship, meetings for clubs of all sorts... As you walk in the door you see a sticker signifying that it is a safe space for all, I think that's cool.
It's nice to see community spaces geared around the more articulate parts of humanity.
This one is meant to be a post office of sorts as far as I can tell.
It's funny, because inside it looks like it was meant to be a restaurant, which lives in a different area.
The restaurant/ play kitchen is labeled as an airport though... all odd, and all so fun for little ones who cannot nitpick over such things.
Here is a view of the other airport(?)/ kitchen area, where my son made me "tea".
I will note that his methods were wild.
He dipped various play foods into the tea pot, then proceeded to serve me invisible mugs. Emory would then prompt me to sip my "tea", making a "ssssssup" sound. 😂
Another thing I like about this space is the nudge to clean up after yourself.
I think in American society, some important things are forgotten... Signage here reminds folks that this space is a gift, and librarians are not maids... and the signs do it just right. I have to love the panache!
The culture of our local libraires here in the US always warms my heart..
Here is a view of what my son made me while I waited for my appointment...
Mostly I got lots of "tea".
As always, the people watching here was interesting. It can be dubious and also productive to compare what you are saying to your little ones vs. what others are.
Another kid served his father "water", to which the father replied that water was yucky! I found this... well, odd? I mostly give my kids water, what is he doing??
Aside from my burning questions, I had such a wonderful time in my local library.
After spending some time in the play area, I went to my passport appointment. Afterwards, I went to pick out some books, of course!
You know, my favorite genre is fantasy... I particularly enjoy punchy and fresh fantasy with a bit of humor. With these things in mind, and the fact that fantasy is my passion... Do you know how mad it is that I've never read a Terry Pratchett novel?!
I was excited to pick these books up. Lately I've been in a longstanding rut with my own writing. I find that exploring the writing of others can be the best aid in inspiration, and I'm excited to read a well-loved novelist at last.
I look forward to visiting the community again with my take on Snuff!
