ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Steele Memorial Library in Elmira celebrated the grand opening of its new Kid's Space on Monday afternoon.  Community members gathered to explore the new department, which was six months in the making.

The space has something for kids from birth to sixth grade.  Designed with kids in mind, its full of bright colors, age appropriate reading, and a play area.  Its outfitted with accessible seating, as well as an accessible bathroom.

"One of the reasons why we did this was we're trying to make the space safer, have good sight lines, also be able to contain not just the activity but also sound, so the rest of the library can do its thing and function the way it's supposed to, and just to make something bright and happy for everybody to enjoy," said Paul Chapman, the Executive Director for the Chemung County Library District.

The new department was paid for with New York State Construction Aid, donations, and some library funds.  It cost just over $400,000.  Officials say libraries are a valuable resource, and this project is a community collaboration.

"We always love it when the community shows up. We feel supported, and this is what we're here for. We're here for everybody, whether you have a library card or not. Everyone is welcome in the library," said Doris Jean Metzger, the teen librarian and youth services coordinator for the Chemung County Library District.  "We have something for all ages programs, place to hang out, stuff for teens, stuff for adults and now a new place for children."

The Steele Memorial Library hours can be found below.

Mondays 9 AM – 8 PM
Tuesdays 9 AM – 8 PM
Wednesdays 9 AM – 8 PM
Thursdays 9 AM – 8 PM
Fridays 9 AM – 5 PM
Saturdays 1 PM – 5 PM
Sundays Closed