The grand opening of the new children’s wing at the Bellwood-Antis Public Library was held on Saturday and turned out quite a crowd.
In honor of the new children’s area, Curve mascots, Steamer and Diesel Dog, visited with children and gave autographs. Drawings were held, and some lucky kids went home with autographed Curve baseballs and other memorabilia.
Also, from DelGrosso’s Amusement Park, Buddy Bear was on hand to greet the children and Engineer Rudy shared stories and railroad safety tips with the kids.
There was also face painting, balloons, a train video and milk and cookies for everyone to enjoy.
By the size of the crowd that turned out Saturday morning and the excitement of the children, the event was deemed a huge success.
Children tested out the new toys, including a kitchenette, a train table, blocks, dress-up costumes and stuffed animals. Many enjoyed the child sized furniture, curling up to listen to a parent or friend read a story.
Two of the four child-sized tables are covered with maps, one of the United States and one of the world. Kids had fun sitting at the table and trying to locate Pennsylvania and where they live.
The new computer area was also a hit, as some children found games to play.
Another feature of the new addition that was a big success was the large windows overlooking the railroad tracks behind the library. With each passing train, a group of children would gather excitedly at the window to watch.
Last summer, the Bellwood-Antis Library purchased a four-unit apartment building which is situated directly beside the library, with plans to expand the existing building and add the 3,200 square foot children’s area.
Construction at the site began during the last week of February.
“We wanted to have it done in time for the summer reading program,” said Bilka.
As far as funding for the project, Bilka said, “We’re hoping to receive support from area businesses along with the community.
“We’re also trying to get the kids involved in the project as well. We already have a Brownie troop that has agreed to help.”
She said they are also looking at possibly working with the school district and to get more kids involved.
In order to complete the new addition, funds in the amount of $325,000 are needed. An anonymous donor stepped forward early on in the planning process and agreed to match any funds raised, up to $100,000.
Currently, $150,000 is still needed, as volunteers continue to work on the libraries fund drive.
According to Bilka, over 30 organizations use the library, whether it is to hold a monthly meeting or to share presentations with the public.
“We’re hoping local organizations who use the library will each help raise funds,” said Bilka.
She explained if each of the 30 organizations held one fundraiser, a lot of money could be raised for the addition.
The new children’s area includes a story area, computer area, projection area and child-sized bookshelves surrounding the entire room.
A lot of child-sized furniture and toys were purchased for the new area thanks to a Family Place grant received by the library.
The new computers are strictly for children up to fourth grade.
One special toy a train for children to enjoy as they sit near the large window facing the train tracks.
Bilka explained the children love to see the trains go by and this will provide the opportunity for that to happen.
There is also an area for sofas near the window and another area with rocking chairs for storytelling. One section accommodates several child-sized tables, one with a map of the United States and other with a map of the world.
“We’re very excited about the children’s addition and we feel it will be such an asset to the area,” said Bilka, “and we’re really hoping the community will join in our efforts to raise money for this project.”
