On September 15, the Rye Free Reading Room unveiled its new addition: the Discovery Zone, a vibrant space where children ages 6 months to 6 years old can explore, play, and learn. Specially designed with a variety of creative zones – including interactive play tables, cozy reading nooks, and whimsical “park” benches — the inviting space encourages kids to let their imaginations come to life.
Board President Kirstin Bucci shares the inspiration behind the transformation: “After Hurricane Ida in 2021, we saw an opportunity to creatively revamp the children’s areas damaged by the storm. This was a chance to turn a challenge into something special for the community.”
Thanks to the Auxiliary Board and their Casino Night fundraiser, along with a generous gift from Susan and Tom Salice and Regina and Devin McCrossan, the library was able to transform 950 square feet of space into the Discovery Zone. Abbey Lombardo-Kumar, the Founder and Director of popular local business Learn’ique, brought her rich experience is early childhood education to the space, creating a bright and cheerful environment. Using natural wood furnishings and nature-inspired décor, Abbey and her team created a welcoming atmosphere for reading, engagement, and play guided learning.
Following a three-month renovation, Friends of the Rye Free Reading enjoyed a special preview on September 13, 2024, before the official opening of the space to the public on September 14, 2024.
Library Director Chris Shoemaker expressed his excitement: “We’re incredibly proud to offer this new space where learning and play meet. As we evolve library services to meet the needs and interests of Rye, we’re inviting everyone in to see how exciting it is in the library today and how we continue to change!”