Plymouth District Library patron Mohammed Marini is only 4 years old, but he already knows what it’s like to wait for something exciting. Mohammed’s family regularly visits the library for Storytime and other programs, and for the past nine months they have patiently (mostly!) watched the progress of a major addition to the youth floor: a woodland-themed playspace.

“We were watching through the plastic barrier each week in anticipation,” said Mohammed’s mother, Amal. “The new play area is great because the kids love to move and use their imaginations. So when we come, they do some playtime and then we enjoy all of this [indicating the books, puzzles and manipulative toys].”

The playspace officially opened June 10 with a grand re-opening celebration and ribbon cutting. Before the public debut, Mohammed and his sister Aseel (3) were among the first children to explore it during a sneak-peek trial run. Asked what they liked best, Aseel chose the sleeping fox hidden in a burrow. Mohammed’s answer was broader: “Everything!”

That “everything” includes a giant climbable tree with a slide, mounds and balance beams for active play, a dedicated area for infants and an integrated workspace where caregivers can supervise while they work. Additional play features, funded by Friends of Plymouth District Library, will be added in the coming weeks.

Youth Services Coordinator Lauren Baker explained why play belongs in a library:

“Playspaces are important in libraries because they transform the library from a place that stores information into a place where families gather to explore and connect. Through play, children develop language, problem-solving and social skills. This new magical space will help the library continue to be an engaging place where learning is accessible and inclusive, and where caregivers can connect and support each other.”

The playspace opening marked the completion of a year-long library renovation, funded through planned savings and investment. While new carpet, paint and furniture create a fresh, modern atmosphere, Library Director Shauna Anderson emphasized that the project was about more than appearances.

“Our plan was very much future-focused and centered on positioning PDL for the ways the community uses the library today,” Anderson said.

Highlights include expanded areas for reading, individual study and group collaboration; a reimagined technology commons; improved access to natural light; and environmentally conscious upgrades to HVAC, lighting, and technology infrastructure.

For Mohammed and Aseel, however, the most important thing is that the wait is finally over.

“We’ve been coming here since Mohammed was an infant, and the library just keeps getting better,” Amal said. “I’m glad that I had the opportunity to see the youth floor before and after, to really appreciate the change.”

If you haven’t been to the library recently, now is a great time to visit. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for the library’s all-ages Summer Reading program and enjoy weekly reward coupons from generous local business sponsors.