By AMY ADAMS
news@readthereporter.com
The children’s department at the Westfield Washington Public Library celebrated the first Story Time in its new building on Monday morning, June 3 with a special guest – Mayor Scott Willis.
“What do you think of the new library?” Willis asked. “It’s much needed.”
The crowd of around 50 parents and children responded with a round of applause, and the traffic throughout the rest of the library indicated that the community agrees.
Mayor Scott Willis reads A Good Day for a Hat by T. Nat Fuller. (Reporter photo by Amy Adams)
Donning a “hat” created especially for the day, Willis read A Good Day for a Hat by T. Nat Fuller followed by My Dad! by Charles Fuge.
“The mayor loves children,” City of Westfield Executive Operations Manager Peg Strass said. “He has three kids of his own, and he misses them when they were little, so he takes every opportunity that comes to us to engage with them because it’s really important.”
Children’s Librarian Michelle Wright jumped in between stories to lead the kids in songs.
“It’s terrific to hear all the voices of our friends back in the space,” Wright said. “It’s been a little boring the last few weeks.”
Elias Espinosa colors his own “First Story Time at the New Library” hat. (Reporter photo by Amy Adams)
The previous library building at 333 W. Hoover St. closed at the end of April in order to move into the new building at 17400 Westfield Blvd. The facility on Hoover Street is now slated for renovation and future use by Westfield Washington Schools.
Not only did Saturday, June 1 mark the grand opening of the new library building, it also served as the start of the eight-week summer reading program.
Following Story Time, Willis passed out “Junior Mayor” stickers, and library staff opened the doors on the area set aside for crafts so that the children could create their very own hats like Willis wore.
Natalie (left) and Lucy Anderson are excited about Story Time. (Reporter photo by Amy Adams)
“We love Story Time,” Westfield resident Sara Anderson said. “I love the way it’s books and songs and crafts. It’s perfect. And now I’m excited to see what they will do with the larger space.”
Jeff Owens was also on hand with Kasey and Karmel from the Kasey the Fire and Life Safety Dog educational program for some hands-on pats and cuddles from the kids.
Register for library events and find out more about the summer reading program at wwpl.lib.in.us.
Kasey the Fire and Life Safety Dog is always a calming presence. (Reporter photo by Amy Adams)