Main Library debuts early-learning play center

At the Broward County Library’s new Active Learning Center, youngsters can “play theirway to school success,” said Lisa McClure, community engagement manager.

During the center’s grandopening, dozens of library supporters and young patrons toured thenew play area at the Main Library in Fort Lauderdale.

The preschool set dived into the play stations. Little hands turned and twisted knobs, stacked blocks and carried cuddly sea animals.

Designed to look like a seaside village, the space for kids age 5 and younger provides developmentally appropriate play to promote school readiness. Eight early learning concepts are built into the activities.

The free-flowing layout allows children to play creatively as they explore and problem-solve. Puzzles and toys are plentiful. Kids can shop at miniature stores, role play as a chef or stage puppet shows.

To encourage reading, every station features books that correspond to the theme.

“The children will be exposed to a world of books and hopefully be library patrons for the rest of their lives,” McClure said.

Parents and caregivers will find teachable moments that sprout from the costumes and coordinating toys.

“Spaces like this are a dream come true. We love our kids and want the best for them,” McClure said.

The furnishings are made of solid maple wood and were chosen for safety, McClure said. They are equivalent in quality to any found in a children’s museum.

“The pieces cannot be flipped over,” she said. And all small toys are safe for babies who put everything in their mouths.

Nanny Lesley Kelly visits Main Library each week for storytime with her 3-year-old charge. The center was sorely needed, she said, referring to the former dearth of options.

“There are so many things to appeal to kids. They’vedone a nice job with it,” Kelly said.

“Most people see the library in a traditional sense, as a depository for books,” said KelvinWatson, library director. But the new learning center and other resources such as Creation Station and the business hub help the library “build a betterworld,” too, he said.

The Active Learning Center located at 100 S. Andrews Ave. is open duringMain Library’s regular hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesdays and Wednesdays fromnoon to 8 p.m.