Refresh Coming for Brookwood Library Children’s Area

On Monday, August 25, the Brookwood Library Children's Area will temporarily close - and a temporary Children's Area will open in the Community Room for young readers.

After nearly 20 years of serving families, the Children's Area is getting a much-needed refresh to create an even more welcoming and fun space for families. Updates will include:

• New carpet
• New shelving
• Fresh paint

The refresh is expected to be finished in mid-September.

When the space reopens, it will be rededicated in honor of former Mayor Steve Callaway.

Did you know…

• The Children's Area spans 4,400 square feet and houses nearly 40,000 books in 13 languages.
• It is one of the busiest Children's collections in the Washington County Cooperative Library Services system - last year alone, more than 402,104 books were checked out, about 25% of the total circulation at Brookwood Library!
• It features a sensory space and play area loved by kids and families.

With all the love and use that this space experiences, the time has come to give it some much-needed attention.

What You Need to Know: During the Refresh

Temporary Children's Area

• On Monday, August 25, a temporary Children's Area will open in the Community Room.
• The refresh is expected to be finished in mid-September.
• During this time, the Community Room will not be available to reserve.
• The play area and sensory room will be closed during the refresh.

The Collection

• Reduced Collection: Thousands of books will still be available in the Community Room, but space is limited so some items will be temporarily unavailable.
• Holds: Children's items from Brookwood can't be placed on hold during the refresh, however, staff can assist you to place holds from other locations, and you can still find plenty of options at Shute Park Library.

Other Options During the Closure

• Visit Shute Park Library, which recently added a Baby Garden for ages 0-2.
• Explore other WCCLS libraries nearby, including Bethany, Cedar Mill, North Plains, Cornelius, or Aloha.
• See what's available at the Novel Branch at Hidden Creek Community Center.
• Check out online resources for children, including animated picture books from Libby and Tumblebooks, streaming video from Kanopy kids, and e-books and audiobooks via Libby.

What to Expect: September Reopening

New Shelving

When the refreshed space reopens, you'll notice a big change: front-facing shelving!

"Front-facing library shelving in a children's library is highly valuable for encouraging browsing, independent decision-making, and cultivating a love of reading for our youngest patrons," said Elizabeth López, Hillsboro's Access Library Manager.

"By showcasing book covers, children can more easily choose books, discover new titles, and feel more engaged with the library."

A special thank you to the Friends of the Hillsboro Public Library, who funded the original development of the Children's Area and are helping to fund the new shelving. The Library Foundation of Hillsboro is also supporting the shelving project. Their generosity makes a lasting difference for our youngest patrons.

Play Area & Quiet Room (formerly Sensory Room)

Thanks to community feedback, the Sensory Room will reopen as a Quiet Room, featuring:

• New furniture & tables for quiet/sensory activities
• Interactive sensory wall panels
• A new reading nook

Your understanding and patience during the area refresh is appreciated.

"We look forward to reopening the Children's Area in mid-September with a bright and welcoming space for all to enjoy." López said.