Dreams can be found at the library

Mary Jo Torgeson / with the Puyallup Public Library

What kind of magic is there for children in today’s digital world? Why is it important now more than ever? Where can it be found?

At the library.

This week I asked people to think back about their experience as a child using a library. I heard quite a few things: from the library being dark, mysterious and big, with all those books, to staff being shushers. Never once did anyone say that their memory of a library was magical.

My informal poll also revealed the importance of story hour. One person polled said, “My grandparents took me to the library to story hours. It was different having somebody else tell you a story than your grandparents. The story was active...I was in the story.”

Libraries have changed over the years for children. When I grew up, the Carnegie library I visited was very libraryesque, dark and imposing. I don’t remember anything that was magical. I turned to books for that. Times have changed.

Today, we can find beautiful and large libraries like the one we have in the city of Puyallup. While many of the basic concepts remain, we are working to create a very special place for children, a place children will remember when they grow up, a place of magic and wonder. The fabulous children’s librarians we have are just the beginning.

The magic can be found in the new interactive magnetic wall where children can create and let their imagination run wild. The magic can be found in the art that will soon be installed that will help to frame the children’s area. Find the twinkling stars in the sky, where anything is possible. We will have new children’s sized furnishings, fish tables, and a computer for ages 3 to 7 complete with a variety of learning software. Plus, children will be able to play with early learning toys, which will help to prepare them for school.

There are many community members who believe that magic is indeed important. We were blessed with a bequest from longtime patron Edna Korba and the Puyallup Library Foundation and Friends of the Library contributed additional funds to make our children’s area truly memorable.

Please join us from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 10, for the community unveiling or our “new” children’s area. The artist will be present to discuss the design of the furniture and murals.

There are few “third place” locations for children in any community, a place beyond their home, school or church. Our library is just such a place.

Mary Jo Torgeson is Puyallup Public Library director. She can be reached at mjtorgeson@ci.puyallup.wa.us.