Fremont Library's youth department gets makeover
Kid-friendly computers and tables wired to make charging portable devices easier are among the features of Fremont Public Library's newly renovated youth department.
There's also new carpeting, fresh, bright paint on the walls, and an array of comfortable chairs for patrons of all ages.
"We took the opportunity to create new areas to gather, play, and learn," said Scott Davis, director of the facility at 1170 N. Midlothian Road in Mundelein.
The $350,000 project began Jan. 4 and is nearly complete. Funding came from the library's savings.
An area designed for preschoolers now has iPad computer tablets, computers made for younger kids, a bigger Lego building block table and new shelving.
A puppet theater is coming, too.
And in a section for older kids, patrons can find new computer work stations, tables with built-in electrical and USB outlets for charging personal devices, and new seating.
Finally, the library's teen area received wired tables and additional book display space.
Mundelein resident Sondra Miller is a fan of the improvements.
"The kids love the Lego table," Miller said Thursday morning as she and her 2-year-old son, Noah, enjoyed the renovated space. "It's just the right height and it's big enough for a lot of them to play."
Wauconda resident Amy Lachowin appreciates the changes, too.
"We like that there's more space to move around," said Lachowin, who brought 1-year-old Jake and 2-year-old Avery to the library. "They don't always just like to sit and read."
The improvements were made as the library marks its 15th anniversary on Midlothian Road.
The 58,000-square foot facility opened in February 2001, replacing a much smaller library building in downtown Mundelein that's now the Mundelein Elementary District 75 headquarters.
Library officials hope to renovate more areas of the spacious facility, Davis said, but planning is in the early stages.
"The timetable and scope of the next remodeling will to a great extent be dictated by how successful we are at saving and raising funds," Davis said.