The new Tree Top Room, opening onto the renovated Secret Garden, is a welcoming space for children's programs or for sitting quietly reading by the fountain. You will find delightful art work, fun furnishings, comfortable seating, up-to-date computer access, a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system, and an expanded collection of books and media. Two new wings have been built that add nearly 2500 square feet for programming and collections. The updated Children's Library is not only charming and respectful of its heritage, but strives to be a vibrant learning and entertainment center for children. In December 2005, the first major renovation in 65 years began on this historic building and the doors re-opened on September 29, 2007. The original building was built and furnished through a donation from Lucie Stern in honor of her daughter, Ruth.įeaturing a hand-molded Mission tile roof, a charming fireplace tiled with scenes from fairy tales, child-sized furnishings, and a brick-wall enclosed Secret Garden reminiscent of the one in Frances Burnett's story of the same name the library has been a family destination for generations. The Children's Library, the oldest free standing children's library in the country, was designed by noted local architects Birge and David Clark and built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style.
