A new look and latest technology

Richard Tedesco

State Sen. Jack Martins joined Williston Park trustees and library officials last Wednesday to celebrate the renovation of the children’s reading room at the library.

“We wanted it to be more aesthetically pleasing to the eye,” Williston Park Library director Donna McKenna said. “It came out great. We’re very proud.”

The five-month project, which was paid for through a $15,000 grant obtained by Martins, included a fresh paint job, new carpeting, new tables and chairs and a new house for the library fish, McKenna said

The library also added a Krayon Kiosk that contains 50 apps for children to use for drawing, painting and other activities and four Apple iPads to use the apps.

Outside contractors and employees of the Williston Park Department of Public Works joined forces to do the work. 

“Jack Martins is a true friend of Williston Park,” Village of Williston Park Mayor Paul Ehrbar said. “He’s been there for us on small and large issues. His help with the library is greatly appreciated. It’s really a tremendous improvement.”

Martins said he believed the reading room was important for the education of the children who use it.

“Getting children excited about learning and reading is the best way to help them develop a passion for it. That’s what this new children’s room does,” Martins said. “From the interactive educational technology right down to the decor, this room creates a fun learning environment which all children will enjoy and want to return to again and again.”

McKenna said children using the space have been responding positively to the improvements.

“It’s brighter. It’s more fun. It seems to have a better energy about it,” McKenna said. “It’s just a great face lift and it makes everybody happier.”

She said new families in the area find the reading room “child-friendly” and said parents familiar with the old space are happy with the renovation.

Ehrbar said impact of the library extends beyond the borders of Williston Park.

“It’ll be utilized not just by Williston Park residents, but by residents from neighboring communities,” he said, including Mineola and East Williston residents.

Reach reporter Richard Tedesco by e-mail at rtedesco@theislandnow.com or by phone at 516.307.1045 x204. Also follow us on Twitter @theislandnow1 and Facebook at facebook.com/theislandnow.

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