Play With Purpose at the Hillsboro Public Library

The Hillsboro Public Library (HPL) has two very active branches that serve the robust youth population of Hillsboro. Our Vision Statement is “Welcoming and inclusive, the Hillsboro Public Library is a world-class system where our entire community gathers, connects, and explores.” Our mission is simply: “For Everyone/Para Todos.” We were ready to live up to our vision of a world-class system for our community. In the spring of 2018, I worked as a practicum student at the HPL-Brookwood main branch as a requirement for my library science degree. I was issued the challenge to create a more playful, engaging experience in the library for the children we serve in the community. The Power of Play states “As libraries continue to compete with television, technology, and commercial endeavors, staying focused on a library’s purpose to develop human potential is our best response. Transforming underutilized public spaces into dynamic early learning places is a great starting point” (Stoltz, Conner & Bradberry, 2015). While we deliver stellar programming that is well-attended, the children’s collection area was ready for an update.