Rosedale, Md.(February 7, 2008) - Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith officially opened Storyville, the first interactive play environment of its kind in the State and perhaps the nation, at a ribbon cutting ceremony in the Rosedale Library, 6105 Kenwood Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21237. Storyville is a specially designed, organized, and free play site that will support and nurture important school readiness skills. It is designed for young children, birth to six years of age, their parents, and caregivers. Storyville is located in the Rosedale Library. Watch Video
Features of the 2,240 square-foot interactive play area include:
- a child-sized townscape complete with a library, baby garden,toddler bay, house, store, theatre, and construction site
- interactive play materials and activities that are engaging, fun, and promote school readiness skills
- age-appropriate literacy materials in each venue
- take-home materials and resources for parents and caregivers to continue the learning at home story times and programs that engage children and their caregivers in early literacy activities.
“Research affirms that the earlier children are exposed to books, literacy activities, and other cultural experiences, the greater are their chances for success during their formal education,” said Smith. “In Baltimore County, we recognize that we have no greater responsibility than preparing our children for a successful future. Today we celebrate Storyville, a remarkable resource for our children.”
The $700,000 project was built with a bond bill grant for $250,000, state funds, and individual and corporate donations. Storyville is open during regular library hours: Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.
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