Community Grant Spotlight: Eckhart Public Library
At Eckhart Public Library, recent grant funding has helped expand opportunities for children and families to learn through play within the Children’s Department.
Through support from the Community Foundation DeKalb County, the library introduced sensory interactive panels designed to encourage exploration through sight, touch, sound, and movement. These additions complement existing materials and provide more inclusive, sensory-friendly learning opportunities for all visitors.
Staff regularly see children drawn to the panels—whether they’re exploring textures or guiding their stuffed animals through each activity. The panels have also become a helpful point of focus during supervised visitations, offering a calming way for families to connect in more challenging moments.
“Last week I heard a patron and his daughter discussing strategy for the puzzle similar to a Rubik’s cube. They played together for more than five minutes. It’s gratifying to see older kids interact with parents around the puzzles,” shared Jane, Public Services Specialist.
During a recent transformation of the Secret Garden space, children stepped into the “Page Turner Pizzeria,” where they could take orders, handle play payments, and create pizzas. Activities like this help build communication, problem-solving, and social skills in a way that feels natural and fun.
Not every child thrives in busy, high-energy environments. By offering a mix of interactive elements throughout the space, the library ensures that each child can engage in a way that feels comfortable—whether quietly exploring on their own or playing alongside others.
Together, these efforts reflect Eckhart Public Library’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of DeKalb County families. Small additions have created new opportunities for connection, learning, and play across the Children’s Department.
For 30 years, the Community Foundation has partnered with organizations like Eckhart Public Library to invest in ideas that strengthen our community—creating spaces where families can connect, learn, and grow together.
This story is part of our 30 Years, 30 Stories series, highlighting the people, partnerships, and projects shaping DeKalb County.
Want to support projects like this one?
Give Where You Live is happening May 4–8. By making a gift to the Community Grantmaking Endowment Fund, you help support grants that make projects like this possible. Thanks to a 2:1 match from Lilly Endowment, Inc. through GIFT IX, your gift will be tripled until we reach our goal. Learn more here.