Children who visit the Village Library of Morgantown now have a newly renovated play area to enjoy, which includes blocks for building, sensory toys, a train table, books and puzzles. A mural was also recently added to complement the room.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on New Year's Eve, Dec. 31, 2021, to officially celebrate the grand opening of the children's area. The ribbon was cut by library director Maria Long and children's library director Pam Mohl.

Also on hand for the event were youngsters ages 5 to 12 along with their parents or guardians, who also enjoyed snacks, storytelling, a craft and watching a "Peanuts" movie. All attendees were provided with New Year's hats and horns.

Long noted that the room is handicapped-accessible, and it features sensory toys that are mounted on the wall, which allow children to manipulate dials, gears and other tactile gadgets. "We included mounted sensory toys, which are excellent for children who have autism. These toys are proven to help autistic children relax, focus and calm down," said Long. "A lot of sensory toys also help with development."

The mural, which was painted on the back wall of the room, features a tree with books on its branches. It was painted by local artist Anna Carter, a former library board member, with assistance provided by board member Lauren Nappi.

Long said the children's area was made possible through the sponsorship of Iron Mountains, a Morgantown company that creates products for children, including child safety seats, strollers and travel beds. Volunteers from the company completed work in the room during the National Day of Giving, also known as Giving Tuesday, in November.

In addition to a fresh coat of paint and new flooring, some of the older furniture was moved out of the room and a colorful throw rug was added.

"We gave (the room) a makeover. It was so cluttered," said Long. "Now everything is spread out. It's very inviting. It invites parents to sit on the floor and engage with their kids."

Long noted that the library has plans of creating an outdoor reading garden in the coming year with continued sponsorship by Iron Mountains.

"The library (needs to have) a functional space while considering the safety of our library community during the pandemic. (We want to come) up with innovative ways to make sure the needs of the people we serve are being met," said Long. "A big factor with all these renovations taking place is making it a library for everyone."

The Village Library is located at 207 N. Walnut St., Morgantown. Library hours are Mondays and Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information about library activities, visit http://www.facebook.com/VillageLibraryofMorgantown or http://www.villagelibrary.org or contact Long at 610-286-1022 or smolibrary@gmail.com.