Lewiston Public Library Launches Million Campaign to Revitalize Children’s Department
LEWISTON, Maine – In what marks a significant investment in youth engagement and community development, the Lewiston Public Library has launched its ambitious million READy to GROW campaign, aimed at transforming the library’s children’s department into a modern hub for creativity and learning. The campaign was officially kicked off at a festive “Dream Big” event held on Saturday, inviting children and families to share their imaginative visions for the future of the library space.
The gathering saw an enthusiastic participation from local families, providing children with a platform to express their creativity through sketches and ideas that ranged from whimsical dragon sculptures suspended from the ceiling to dynamic disco balls casting colorful lights. Victoria Stanton, a local mother who attended the event with her daughter, expressed her delight at the initiative, stating, “This event has been so fun, watching my kiddo bounce around and express her creativity.” Such sentiments echo the library’s goal of fostering a vibrant, interactive environment conducive to young imaginations.
Deputy Director Sara Turner emphasized the importance of community involvement in shaping the library’s future. “Dream Big is about their imaginations,” she explained. “What do they want to see? That’s what we care about.” The proposed remodel is designed to create a contemporary space that reflects the evolving needs of modern children while encouraging further engagement with library resources.
Founded as a vital community resource, the Lewiston Public Library serves as one of the few venues in Maine’s second-largest city that offers free access to educational materials and a welcoming atmosphere for families. Turner highlighted the significance of providing an inclusive space where financial constraints do not limit access to learning and creativity. “You don’t have to buy anything to be here,” she noted.
As the READy to GROW campaign progresses, initial momentum and community excitement have already been palpable, with Stanton commenting, “I just know it’s going to really enhance the way families interact with the library.” This initiative is seen as a pivotal step toward creating a long-term, engaging environment for children, ultimately positioning the library as a bastion of creativity and collaboration.
Currently, the campaign is still in its early stages, with organizers aiming to garner support through community donations. While Saturday’s event was free to attend, contributions were encouraged, and Turner noted that the campaign has reached approximately 25% of its funding goal. Renovations will commence once they achieve the halfway mark, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and community involvement in the library’s development journey.
If executed as envisioned, the revitalization of the children’s department will not only enhance its allure but also solidify the library’s role as a vital community resource, encouraging children to explore their creativity in a dynamic and interactive setting. The READy to GROW campaign stands as a testament to Lewiston’s commitment to investing in its future generations, ensuring that the library remains a cherished sanctuary for learning and imagination.
