From the farmer’s market to the red barn, the fishing boat to the wind turbine—I can’t decide on a favorite scene in the Willmar Public Library’s new Smart Play Spot. But I do know my favorite part of Monday morning’s Grand Opening program was watching children charge in after cutting the ribbon, excited to get their hands on the activities and books.
This Smart Play Spot is created by Minnesota Children’s Museum, in partnership with the library and supported by a number of local businesses and organizations, including SWIF and the Willmar Early Childhood Initiative.
The spot is designed to help young children learn while they play. Literacy and school readiness are so important—exposure to words, numbers, colors and shapes in this setting makes learning fun. And, I’m thrilled to see our southwest Minnesota surroundings featured in the spot, bringing the unique and important things we find throughout our region right to our children’s fingertips.
Thank you to all those who donated to bring this special spot to our region. A huge thanks goes to the Minnesota Children’s Museum for partnering with the Willmar community. All of the community leaders who were part of the grand opening program deserve our thanks as well—head librarian Ryan McCormick, City Administrator Charlene Stevens, Minnesota Children’s Museum President Dianne Krizan, Sen. Lyle Koenen, Willmar Superintendent Dr. Jerry Kjergaard, Pat Solheid from Jennie-O Turkey Store and Patti Dols from Empower. And, a huge thank you to SWIF Board member Gary Geiger for being part of the morning and Program Officer Sara Carlson for her great work to help make this project happen.
This is yet another great example of how giving and collaboration are critical to supporting our future…and our youngest citizens.
