The Tacoma Public Library and its supporting Library Foundation believes that libraries are vital to building strong, compassionate, and prepared communities. You cannot build strong, compassionate and prepared communities without focusing on the future of this community – the children.
In an effort to invest in these young lives, the Tacoma Public Library determined it was time to upgrade the Children’s Area of the Tacoma Public Library’s main branch located in downtown Tacoma, establishing a modern, welcoming, and engaging children’s education and learning area.
The previous children’s area at the main library, like the spaces surrounding it, were drab, uninviting and did not spark engagement. As a result of the renovation, the Children’s Area now has furniture and learning fixtures sized just right for their youngest patrons, plus comfortable seating for families.
This vibrant new space doesn’t just look different —it changes how families experience the library in several ways. The new surroundings are intended to spark imagination and encourage inquiring minds and multicultural enlightenment. The panels and furnishings are designed to cultivate an atmosphere where a parent or caregiver can talk and engage with their child. The Library Foundation believes that supporting the development of close, emotional bonds between a parent or caregiver in a child’s early years will have a positive impact on the growth of emotional and physical health of children using the library. This, in turn, provides a stable and open foundation for a child’s learning, producing happier, healthier communities. A better-designed children’s area also means parents and caregivers can be more comfortable supervising, reading, working or relaxing nearby, and potentially network with others. Some may use the space as a respite or quiet time while kids are engaged. This enriched children’s learning area also enhances a caregiver’s understanding of resources available to them.
The Ben B. Cheney Foundation is proud to have supported this transformation through a grant, helping ensure that Tacoma’s children, the future of our community, have a place to imagine, discover, and grow.
About the Tacoma Public Library Foundation:
The Tacoma Public Library Foundation strengthens Tacoma’s thriving communities by fueling our library system through philanthropy and outreach. We believe libraries are vital to building strong, compassionate, and prepared communities, and that learning is a human right. Through outreach and philanthropy, the Foundation strengthens Tacoma Public Library’s vision to be a radically welcoming, trusted community hub where all people can find joy, compassion, and inspiration.