I’m going to be honest. The only time I ever go to the library is to pick out some movies to watch on a rainy day. And most of the time, it’s only when I’ve watched all my shows and movies on Netflix. The most recent time I visited the Bel Air Library, to my surprise, there was a big sign that said “New Children’s Section. Grand Reopening”. Curious, I walked in and was instantly surprised by the new remodel.  

As you walk in, you are instantly greeted by a floor-to-ceiling Nature Maker steel art tree. This tree was hand-crafted and hand-painted by several sculptors in Carlsbad, California, and was produced using seventy-five percent recycled steel and renewable materials.

Aside from the tree, there are areas for all age groups. These include a steam works lab, a county general store and a baby garden. All aspects of the library of centered around children using their imagination. Whether it’s reading books in the nooks of the tree or creating art in the steam works lab. To be completely honest with you, I spent way too much time exploring all the areas. The parents probably thought I was some crazy person because I was just as excited as (maybe even more than) their children.

Angela Brooks, mother of two, says, “I think the new addition to the library will really allow my kids to express themselves and grow their love of reading.”

When we were younger, we didn’t necessarily have the luxury of a fantastic children’s section at our local library. We had some books and some puppets. Oh and also that train that held books! I loved that train. While I was exploring the library, there were tons of children walking around dressed up in costumes and playing games. In the old library, it was more get your book and get out, but now the children are encouraged to explore and use their natural curiosity and creativity to make the library whatever they want it to be.  

“Our parents love when we take the kids to the library because it allows not only growth in reading but it encourages creativity.” Director of Laurel Bush Celebree Mary Stinar says. “And this new children’s section excels anybody’s thought of what it was going to be. It was a great addition.”

Living in Bel Air, there are always things that stick out to you no matter what age you are. Now, as various aspects of the town such as the library are improving and remodeling, it allows you to appreciate them so much more. Yes, not everyone likes the library, but it’s a very important staple in our town. I encourage you to go check the new children’s section out. Who knows… You might find yourself using your imagination as well.