From the Boston Globe (1200+ Words):

The initial phase [of the makeover] is focused on the second floor of Johnson [building], with an expanded and improved children’s library. The plan calls for doubling the space to about 4,400 square feet that will include a tween and a teen section, and the early childhood area.

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For the youngest users, there will be more “early literacy toys” that promote brain development, says [BPL President Amy] Ryan. “We haven’t really kept up with what we know about the development of children and reading skills at the very earliest ages, in their first year.” There will be large toys and shapes with noises that the littlest ones can hold and play with, along with a story area.

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A space will be carved out for tweens, ages 10 to 12, who are too young to feel comfortable in the teen area but want to be separated from the tots. For teens, there will be homework and hangout booths where they can study together.

Library officials see the teen area as a transitional space, since teens are tomorrow’s main library users. “Once they start talking to our teen librarians, it will be easier for them to be guided over to use the rest of the library resources,” says Ryan.

Read the Complete Article (1200+ words)

See Also: Graphic From Boston Post Highlights: “Transforming the Johnson Building”

See Also: Follow the Improvement Project (Info Direct from BPL)

See Also: Boston Public Library Strategic Plan and Principles