MANDAN, N.D. – The Morton‑Mandan Public Library announced the opening of a new branch inside the Play Lab early‑learning initiative of the Mandan Public School District. The modest‑sized space is designed to serve families on the south side of the railroad tracks, where access to the main library can be limited.
“Its purpose is to serve the community down here, like on this side of the tracks. They maybe don’t have the resources to get to the other side of the tracks,” said circulation assistant Shancee Porter, who helped coordinate the launch.
On Thursday morning, the new branch was already bustling with at least two dozen children and their caregivers. The shared‑use facility combines the library’s collection of books and media with Play Lab’s hands‑on learning stations, including tumbling mats for motor‑skill development, pretend‑grocery and kitchen playsets for social interaction, and daily story times that promote early reading.
“I love to watch the kids connect with kids, but also with their grown‑ups. And then, one of the extra bonuses that is happening is the community of grown‑ups that are being built within this space,” explained Janet Bassingthwaite, early‑learning coordinator for Mandan Public Schools.
Community‑building through play and books
The Play Lab concept disguises learning opportunities through play, allowing families to engage in informal education while fostering a sense of belonging. By co‑locating the library branch, the district hopes to remove barriers to literacy resources and create a welcoming hub where parents can model reading habits for their children.
In addition to the everyday programming, the Play Lab will host a special event on Saturday, November 7: Gateway to Science in Bismarck will visit to provide additional early‑childhood science activities. Details about the event are available through the library’s website.
Supporting families and early education
The partnership reflects a broader trend of libraries collaborating with schools and community organizations to expand access to educational materials. For families in Mandan’s south side neighborhoods, the new branch offers a convenient, free resource for books, digital media, and enrichment programs without the need to travel across town.
Library officials anticipate that the space will grow into a focal point for parent‑child interaction, early literacy, and community cohesion. By encouraging children to be loud, playful, and curious, the Morton‑Mandan Public Library hopes to lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
