TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Just in time for summer, a “reinvented” Kids Library will open this week in Topeka.
A grand opening ceremony for the redesigned Kids Library is set for 9 a.m. Thursday, May 29, at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 S.W. 10th Ave.
Officials described the new Kids Library as “a 14,050-square-foot interactive wonderland for kids to learn, play and grow.”
The grand opening event will feature representatives from the Library Foundation, Capitol Federal Foundation and Security Benefit.
”This isn’t just a library — it’s an unforgettable adventure for every age and stage,” said Marie Pyko, the chief executive officer of the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library. “Opening the Kids Library just before Summer Reading and Events adds even more fun and excitement to all the amazing activities we have planned for June and July.”
Officials said the new Kids Library will offer a wide range of hand-on activities for children.
“Whether kids are projecting their artwork on a giant screen, pretending to be veterinarians or fix-it pros in ever-changing play zones, or diving into stories in cozy nooks near a towering T. Rex,” officials said, “every corner of the Kids Library is made for discovery.”
Children will be able to “watch sea life shimmer in our brand-new aquarium, take a break in our calm room or play in an infant-only space. Kids can use a rock-climbing wall, take the stairs to the crow’s nest for a bird’s-eye view of the terrain, or relax in a campfire-inspired reading zone. There is also a vibrant tech-filled hangout for teens and a separate tech area for school-aged kids.”
Officials noted that the Kids Library redesign is part of the library’s Facilities Master Plan.
HTK Architects designed the new space and construction was led by Shirley Construction.
The redesign was funded by the library and gifts to the Library Foundation from the following organizations and individuals, including:
- Capitol Federal Foundation
- Security Benefit
- Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust
- Advisors Excel
- Capitol Federal Employee Giving
- In Memory of Patricia Barr
- Snethen Family
- Evergy
- Giving Tuesday 2024 Gifts
- Library Giving Day 2024 Gifts
- Russ and Jane Greene
“HTK is deeply grateful for the opportunity and continued partnership with the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library to re-imagine the new Kids Library,” said Maddie Safford of HTK Architects. “As designers and architects, but also parents and community members, we are honored to serve our community through the work we do and continue to make Topeka a great place to live.
“I look forward to watching my children and seeing other families learn and explore in the new library for many years to come. The library is a true asset in our community.”
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