Construction begins next week on new washroom in MHPL’s children’s library
By Medicine Hat News on September 14, 2024.
The Medicine Hat Public Library will begin construction on a new washroom in the Kinsmen Children’s Library next week. While it may not be the most exciting of projects, said MHPL, it is a much needed addition that will make the library a more accessible and easier place to use for parents. “The new washroom is much more convenient for families and provides a private space where parents can change their little ones away from the sometimes draughty front door,” said Carol Ann Cross-Roen, head of youth services. She added that the addition also removes any awkwardness of having little boys in the ladies’ room or little girls in the men’s room. The library is delighted to be able to make this addition possible, thanks to collaboration with the City of Medicine Hat, which has led the project management while the library covers the cost of the construction. This change will be useful from a safety perspective, as well, said Cross-Roen. “We’ve seen more than one young runner make it nearly out the front door. Having a dedicated space within the children’s library is much safer and makes things a bit easier for parents, especially for a parent trying to manage more than one child,” said Cross-Roen. “Aside from all that, we know that parents working on potty training their children will find it much better to have a washroom nearby to help reduce accidents.” The new washroom will be located on the south wall of the children’s library, beside the Co-op Community Developmental Play Space. Two rows of shelving have been removed to make room for the construction and washroom, so holiday books, board books, language books and book bundles have been temporarily relocated. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. 9-8
