Before Richmond Library closed, Pugh would bring her daughter there on days she didn’t have school or daycare. During the closure, the pair tried other branches, but they were farther away and often closed.
“It’s hard finding things for free on a day-to-day basis to just spend time at that’s safe,” she said. “It’s always safe at the library, you know? You’re always going to find something to do at the library. So it’s good to have the kids be able to come and meet other kids here.”
The indoor hive at the Richmond Library is a favorite for many visiting children. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
Now, Pugh is excited to bring her daughter to storytime and socialize with other families.
Lucy Price visited the Richmond Library with her 3-year-old son, Sully, on Wednesday. She said he went straight to the library’s glassed-in beehive, and the pair left with five books.
Niya Pugh and Zia, 3, read a book together at the Richmond Library in Philadelphia. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
“My favorite part is checking out new books just to keep a rotation of fresh material in our house,” Price said. “It really fosters our love of reading. And then it’s just a great place to meet other kids and other moms.”
The Richmond Library plans to hold storytime and play groups for babies and toddlers again starting in September.