Library Returns as More Kid-Friendly
The Balboa Branch of the Newport Beach Library reopened Sunday after an extensive remodeling geared at making the building more comfortable for children.
The children’s area was given a fresh coat of paint and framed posters depicting characters from children’s books were hung on the walls.
Most important, the area received new bookshelves, the tallest of which is only 66 inches.
“Most of the kids should even be able to reach the top shelves,” said Judy Kelley, director of children’s services for the Newport Beach Public Library.
The Balboa branch has always attracted large numbers of children because of its proximity to Newport Elementary School, Kelley said. Additionally, the library received new electrical outlets and increased electrical capacity so it may house more computers.
Most of the work was paid for with $50,000 bequeathed by Roy Reiber when he died in 1993. Reiber was an avid reader and amateur poet who loved the atmosphere and friendly employees at the branch.
The remodeled children’s area was rededicated Sunday and named the Reiber Children’s Room.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
