Funded primarily through a $250,000 grant from the Allen County Public Library Foundation, the new Allen County Public Library Early Learning Center replaces the much-loved Early Child Center that had welcomed children for over 13 years. The new, interactive center features a 2,600 SF flexible space for ages seven and under, including a baby garden for infants and toddlers to practice gross motor skills and three learning stations for early learners to practice imaginative play, hands-on learning, and themed exploration with parents, caregivers, and siblings. With the goal of connecting playtime to reading and learning, books are placed at kid-level and the space hosts weekly StoryTime sessions.