A reopening of a haven for little readers was met with enthusiasm Saturday at the Children’s Room at the Florence Williams Public Library. There was a puppet show, storybooks were read, reading rap was sung, and folks could get library cards or buy used books.
Around 30 children sat on a brightly colored Garfield pile carpet and made themselves comfy with red, yellow and blue, vinyl covered pillows. Moms sat with smaller children on their laps seated at the child-size tables and chairs. The walls were freshly painted lemon yellow and avocado green and covered with new children’s Dewey Decimal System posters.
Alicia Barnes, Department of Planning and Natural Resources Commissioner, read "The Big Roar," one of the featured books in the the Governor’s Summer Reading Challenge. She said the only thing she loved more than shopping was reading.
Janice Tutein, cultural storyteller and retired teacher, read what she said are two of her favorite Dr. Seuss stories, "Yertle the Turtle" and "What was I Scared of?"
Sharon Charles, St. Croix International Reading Council president, led the children in a rousing rap encouraging reading.
The room was closed in December because of water damage caused by major roof leakage after heavy rains in the fall.
Ingrid A. Bough, territorial director of Libraries, Archives & Museums, said the department made substantial roof repairs, did gutter work, and cleaned and sealed 58 windows. She said the department really strove to get it open for summer. She added it has been open a month and they have seen an increase in patrons. “This is a wonderful space to read, learn and grow,” said Bough.
The Governor’s Summer Reading Challenge staff manned a table and signed up children. They gave out the five featured challenge books, all by local authors. Angeli Ferdschneider, special assistant to Gov. John deJongh Jr., said there is still plenty of time for children to sign up for the challenge.
The Friends of the St. Croix Public Libraries ran a membership drive and had a used book sale to benefit the library. The Humane Learning Center gave a puppet show in the little theater. There was a Sky Dancing Surprise, a mocko jumbie stilt dancer, balloon tying and refreshments.
Those leaving the event had one more chance to find a book they would like to read as outside on King Cross Street, the St. Croix Bookmobile was open for tours and book checkout.
