Can you imagine a giant Tualang Tree in downtown Colfax?  How about King Cobras hanging from that tree, Bengal Tigers lurking around bookshelves, or Proboscis Monkeys eying you from above?

At Whitman County Library, we are working with architects to make these authentic rain forest sights and sounds a reality.

In conjunction with the safety and ADA building renovation project at the Colfax Library, an exciting rainforest themed children's room is sprouting. Called Hayden's Corner, the area will boast a giant rain forest tree, lifelike stuffed creatures and natural jungle sounds. Hayden's Corner will provide an invigorating learning atmosphere for children of all ages. Colorful new book collections and theme related programs will reinforce the true adventure that can be found from books, reading and learning.

The birth of Hayden's Corner resulted from the tragic death of a very special little boy. Seven-year-old Hayden Klaveano was a regular visitor to the Colfax Library when he died suddenly last winter. Heartbroken, his mom Jill searched for positive ways to focus her grief and remember her happy-go-lucky, redheaded son.

Jill recalled how Hayden loved the outdoors and especially reading about rainforests and the animals that lived there. Wanting all children to experience the joys of learning about distant lands and also, to learn what a vital role rainforests play in our global existence, Jill settled upon this most appropriate theme.

We expect Hayden's Corner along with addition of an elevator, important handicap and safety renovations to be complete at years end. Thanks to the extreme generosity of our community, local business, foundations and the efforts of many others, Whitman County Library has raised thousands of dollars locally for this $1 million dollar project.

 

For more information, contact:

Kristie Kirkpatrick at 509-397-4366 or see our website.