Westchester library exceeds expectations. There is much to do and plenty of space to do it. This library looks tiny, but is deceptive. It’s a split level. You enter from the right rear side into a ground level mezzanine comprising of the checkout desk, new collections and a sitting area. Go down half a flight for kids, or up for adults.
The children’s department is huge. It’s an L-shaped space, only 3 feet under ground, with large south and west facing windows. You don’t feel stuck in a basement because you are only subterranean up to your waist and there is sunshine aplenty.
The initial area has a puzzle table and a large white board. Ask for markers at the front desk.
Walk back past book shelves to the end and a big, bright play zone beckons you with colorful couches, tables & chairs and a funny animal mural. Play items include five different “wire and bead” sets, stuffed animals, plastic dinosaurs, and a collection of Fisher Price toys featuring a castle, pirate ship, cars and a Cinderella carriage, which constantly played Angela Lansbury’s rendition of Bibbidi–Bobbidi–Boo. An hour of that is almost enough to contemplate doing a little “Murder She Wrote” on the toy, or at least a scramble for the off button.
On the other side of the L shaped space near the stairs, the library has recently installed a very hip 30 x 30 feet teen lounge with booths, high tables, vending and TV/video game area. Quite impressive.
Westchester is a town of humble post war brick homes. Their library’s space commitment to children rivals and often exceeds larger, more fancier towns near it and is to be commended.
The library is on Canterbury street. You’ll find it in a neighborhood southwest of the intersection of Roosevelt road and Route 45. Worth a visit.
