The Minot Public Library wishes to invite all community members, big and small, young and old, to our Grand Re-Opening Party on Saturday, January 13, 2024. The party will begin at 1:00 pm with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the rollout of our new reading challenge, “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten.” Followed by a dance party for kids, story times throughout the event, and games. The party will come to a close at 3:00 pm.
Why remodel? The curriculum developed by the Association for Library Service to Children and Public Library Association, known as Every Child Ready to Read®, gives guidelines on early literacy standards. Talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing are five practices to fully engage families in early literacy initiatives. The Minot Public Library endeavors to bring these practices to the forefront of every library visit. The Minot Public Library is confident in our story time execution for the first four practices, and the remodel of the Children’s Library to include a play area, architecture, and whimsical paint has completely changed the library experience for our littlest patrons.
Over the past 6 months, there have been a lot of changes in the Children’s Section of the Minot Public Library. “We wanted our children’s area to feel fun and inviting and be a great place for kids to use their imaginations,” said Library Director Zhaina Moya.
Where once there were beige walls and columns, families now enter seeing yellows and purples. Several large structural columns have turned into towering trees throughout the space. The library now has three reading niches for children and caregivers to read their new favorite books. There is a stage where patrons can read or entertain themselves with a short performance. Our new play area is perfect for kids to play in and explore the world around them.
Librarians have seen how the changes to the Children’s Library have affected our family patrons. The bonds strengthen, creativity is explored, and social and emotional skills grow as families explore the reimagined library together.
Children’s programming has started back up with monthly programs; however, story times will begin on Monday, February 5th. Maker Monday is for independent children who can separate from their caregivers, ages 3-6. Children will listen to stories and complete an activity. Space is limited, so come early to get your ticket. This program is Mondays from 10:00 – 10:30 am. Smart Start is on Tuesdays from 10:00 – 11:00 am. This story time is for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Children will work on basic motor skills such as cutting and writing. Lap Sit Story Time is on Wednesdays from 10:00 – 10:30 am. This is for children birth through age 3 and their caregivers. There will be stories, songs, and fingerplays.
Monthly programs include Family Story Time from 10:30 – 11:00 am on the second Saturday. During this program, community members read stories and answer questions about their work in the community for families. Family Story Time is for all ages. Kindness Knights is also on the second Saturday of the month at 1:00 pm. This is geared toward kids grades 2-6. Kids learn how to give back to their community by helping various organizations and individuals. For more information on other programs such as LEGO Club, READ Dogs, and Pokémon Club, please head to the Minot Public Library’s website at www.minotlibrary.org, check out our Facebook page, or give us a call at (701) 852-1045.
