Library: Children Department Renovation Complete

After , the Patchogue-Medford Library’s Children’s and Parent’s Services Department (CAPS) has recently re-opened in the library’s lower level.

More than 300 children and parents witnessed the ribbon ­cutting event and toured the newly opened children’s department. The ceremony was followed by activities for children and families, including face painting, balloon creations, art projects and healthy snacks.

Patchogue­-Medford Library director Dina Chrils said that the renovation provides a state-of-the-art update to the department.

”The new facility offers an exciting and comfortable environment for families to interact with literature and other learning resources. We look forward to continuing serving our community as a facilitator of learning and literary experience for all ages,” Chrils said.

Patchogue resident Dianne Melucci brought her four kids to the opening festivities and to check out the latest changes.

"The kids are enjoying themselves. I think the new space is terrific. It's spacious and inviting. It's set-up in such a way that the kids can find what they want easily" Melucci said

The renovation was performed by Stalco Construction and H2M.

During preliminary design meetings, the library staff suggested a theme of “learning taking flight.” The theme is referenced in the design of the corridor, where both the floor pattern and three-­dimensional ceiling emulate trails behind a jet in flight. The geometry of the computer section within the children’s space suggests the shape of a gull’s wings. Centrally located within the stack area is a “nest,” a circular space with comfortable seating intended for parents and children to interact while reading together.

Children's librarian, Elaine Perez, commented on how much the department has grown over the years.

"We have hundreds of programs each year. Some are just for the children or just for the parents or for the entire family. We have a fantastic bilingual and spanish collection now and we do bilingual storytime. There has been a lot of community support. Everyone is working hand-in-hand and now we can serve our community better," Perez said.

The department was re-located to St. Paul's School in September until the renovations were completed.

Check the for highlights from the opening.