On the safari

The Eddy-New Rockford Public Library is making reading fun for local youth.

On Monday, August 12, from 4-6 p.m., the library will be holding an open house for their brand new safari-themed children's reading area.

Located in the back of the library, this new hangout spot for young readers offers a unique place for kids to enjoy reading, and librarian Susie Sharp couldn't be more excited for kids to begin putting it to good use.

"It's for kids to enjoy where they have their own area to read," said Sharp. "They can hang out here and it's a safe environment for them."

The yellow jeep and tall palm trees are standout features of the new reading area, along with a giraffe-shaped bookshelf and the king of the jungle himself watching overhead.

There are also plenty of pillows and stools for the kids to use, and on the jeep's tailgate is a complete lego set.

Sharp said the library has never had something like this before, and that it's all possible thanks to a generous $10,000 donation from the New Rockford Lions Club.

The children's area was originally thought up by Kelly McKnight when she was still on the library board, and although she recently left the board in June, she and her husband, John McKnight, still worked hard to complete the project.

Everything in the children's reading area – including the jeep – was hand-built by the McKnight's, and Sharp said she never imagined it would turn out this well.

"I'm so excited for the kids to have an area that's just for them," said Sharp. "And I appreciate so much the Lions and John and Kelly's work to make it possible."

Everyone is invited to the open house on Monday, Aug. 12, where there will also be plenty of treats such as cookies, coffee and lemonade.

And if you can't make it Monday, be sure to bring the kids and check out the new reading area sometime this week. There's plenty of great reading material for them to enjoy!

Meanwhile, also coming up at the library will be the Summer Reading Finish Line party on Monday, Aug. 19 from 2-3 p.m., where all the kids who participated in this year's Summer Reading Program will celebrate their accomplishments this summer.