Why we’re excited that the VCPL is going to be a Family Place Library!

A few weeks ago, Miss Holly (the Youth Services Coordinator at the library) messaged me to let me know that the Vigo County Public Library (otherwise affectionately referred to as “VCPL”) is now a Family Place Library!

Now if I were a betting man, I’d bet that you aren’t quite sure how to react to this announcement. Are we supposed to be excited about this whole Family Place thing? What is it? It sounds like a good thing…right?

Since first hearing about Family Place Library accreditation, I have learned that this is definitely a good thing. This new accreditation will mean great things for kids and families in Vigo County!

Family Place Library at VCPL

Allow me to explain.*

The library recently introduced a new Family Place play workshop.

Family Place Library added to the Vigo County Public Library

Have you been? They take place on Mondays from 11-12:15.

Things to do at the Vigo County Public Library

These (free) play dates take place in the meeting rooms, and they give kids ages 0-5 plenty of opportunities for imaginative play. Each week, a different community leader (from the library, CASY, the health department, Early Headstart, etc) is available to interact with the kids and answer parent questions.

Family Place Library Accreditation

The library purchased over $3000 in new toys for this project (grant funds, not taxpayer dollars), and their young friends are in love with their purchases. Family Place Library at the Vigo County Public Library

My girls played with baby dolls, puzzles, a tunnel, ride-on toys, musical instruments, a crazy rocking boat that can also be flipped over and turned into stair steps, a kitchen, bubbles, and sensory activities like playdoh and Magic Nuudles (are you familiar with Nuudles? If not, you can see what I mean here on Amazon).

Family Place Library and the Vigo County Public Library

Right now, the library’s plan is to offer this five-week series in both spring and fall.

The play series is one part of Family Place Accreditation.  Family Place libraries build on the knowledge that good health, early learning, parental involvement and supportive communities play a critical role in young children’s growth and development. This is why you’ll see various professional groups represented at these play dates!

Children's Section at the Vigo County Public Library

 

The VCPL librarians truly want to be supportive of parents and babies. By connecting with other community leaders, they can be a more complete resource for your family. What is a family place library?

If your kids are a bit older, you’ll be excited to hear about the new teen space that’s about to hit the floor.

The library purchased a PS4 and an Xbox 1 as well as a gigantic smart TV for that area. They have new ipad airs and nexus 9 tablets to use within the room. And the walls are interactive (most are covered in chalkboard paint!).

Can I come play too?

Also in 2015, the youth services department is scheduled for a remodel. The staff is dreaming of things like toddler potties and a lactation room. A lot of these dreams are dependent on budget, so nothing is set in stone. For now I’m simply excited to report that the youth services department is dreaming big and working hard to serve the youngest members of our great city.

DISCLOSURE: The Vigo County Public Library is a believer in and supporter of Haute Happenings. We’re grateful for their sponsorship of this post as it keeps our site running at no cost to our readers.

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