Library Foundation receives $50,000 grant to improve Midtown Carnegie Children’s Department

The Springfield-Greene County Library Foundation received a $50,000 grant from the Bobby Allison Fund to improve the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library Children’s Department. Funding will support updated furnishings, mobile shelving that allows staff to make room for story times within the children’s department, and hands-on learning features that encourage children and caregivers to read, explore and play together. 

“We are honored to work with the Bobby Allison Fund to create a colorful, dynamic children's space that will help support early literacy and inspire lifelong learning for Midtown families,” said Bridget Dierks, executive director of the Library Foundation. “This project will allow staff to easily adapt the existing space for story times, independent reading and collaborative play.” 

Planned improvements include mobile shelving, new tables and chairs, a story time rug, cushions, and a colorful mural. An Everbright light wall will allow children to create patterns and art using rotating, color-changing dials. Plans also include additional interactive features to encourage hands-on learning and play.