Harrison, NJ's Public Library Desperately Needs a Children's Room

In a time when public libraries have become vibrant community hubs, offering everything from STEM programs to tech resources, the Town of Harrison, NJ, is facing a glaring oversight: the lack of a dedicated children's room in its public library. This is particularly troubling given that a children's space was rendered unusable four years ago due to hurricane damage. Despite the engineer's office confirming FEMA funding approval in 2023, there has been no visible development on this essential project.

Harrison boasts a significant young population, with 6% of residents under the age of 5 and 20% under 18. This demographic is not just a statistic; it represents the future of our community With 46% of residents identifying as Hispanic and 20% as Asian, many families face unique challenges, such as language barriers and navigating the educational system. In this context, a dedicated children's room is not just an amenity; it is a vital resource for supporting young people and their families.

Nearby towns like Jersey City, Montclair, and West Orange have made substantial investments in their libraries, enhancing their offerings with technology, after-school programs, and a focus on STEM education. These towns recognize the role of libraries as safe spaces for children, particularly in the winter months when outdoor activities are limited. Harrison, however, seems to be lagging behind, leaving its young residents without a proper environment to learn, explore, and engage.

The absence of a children's room in Harrison's library is especially concerning when you consider the needs of the community Without a dedicated space for children and teens, families are left with few options for enrichment and support. The current library setup lacks the necessary resources for English language learners and those seeking guidance in navigating educational opportunities. A children's room would not only provide a safe and welcoming environment but also serve as a hub for educational programs tailored to the needs of Harrison's diverse population.

Moreover, the stagnation in public service development amid a backdrop of rapid residential and commercial growth is disheartening. While the township sees new buildings and an influx of residents, the fundamental services that support these individuals—like a functional library for children—are being overlooked. This disconnect raises questions about the priorities of local leadership and the vision for a thriving, inclusive community

As winter approaches, the need for a children's room becomes even more urgent. Public libraries serve as critical refuges for young people, offering not just resources but also a sense of belonging and community engagement. In the absence of a dedicated space, children in Harrison will continue to miss out on invaluable opportunities for socialization and learning.

The time has come for Harrison's leaders to prioritize reconstructing the children's room in the public library. It's essential to turn the FEMA funding approval into action and ensure the library adequately serves the community's youth. Investing in our young population is investing in our future, and we cannot afford to let another winter pass without addressing this crucial need.

Harrison deserves better—our children deserve better. Let's take this opportunity to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

What can you do to help?

Sign this change.org petition to bring additional support and attention to this issue in order to help the Town of Harrison finally prioritize the vital repair of the town's library.

Attend the next Mayor & Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, 2024, starting at  6:15 p.m. in the Harrison Town Hall located at 318 Harrison Avenue, Harrison NJ. Express your support make a statement or ask a question during the Public Session when residents and stakeholders can do so.

QR Code for Change.org Library Petition

This article was written by Kavita Ramachandran, a resident of Harison NJ,. Kavita used our Submit Article feature to send us the article.

Additional Articles of Interest:

Harrison Library Changes Hours After Residents Complain at Mayor & Council Meetings

Harrison Public Library Hours Are Still Very Limited

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