Looking for fun, free activities for the kids this summer where you can just “drop in” and take part? Then check out ImaginOn starting June 11, where something will always be going on. “People don’t have to worry if they’re running late and missing storytime. We’re just concerned with having a quality experience; whenever you jump on the ride, the ride’s going.” said Beth Murray, Education Coordinator at ImaginOn. The new system, called “block programming”, will feature continuous daily programs that will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both drop-ins and groups can participate free of charge.

Group programs will consist of 90 minute packages divided into Preschool, Kids Play, and Teen Trek age groupings for camps and other organizations. Reservations of ten or more young people can be made through www.imaginon.org at least three weeks in advance of the intended visit. These group sessions will include some of the same activities as walk-ins, but reservations must be made to accommodate for visitor traffic.

Previously, activities were planned for specific times that children might not be able to attend due to scheduling or transportation issues. Block programming increases the activity level and options for young people, as well as appeals to all age groups from toddlers to teens. These short, flexible programs will take place in areas with open doors, allowing young people to come in and participate at any time during the activity. How will you know what’s going on? Visitors will see a brand new schedule board where the day’s activities will be listed.

ImaginOn hopes to provide a revolutionary and efficient model for other library locations with the block program system. “Throughout the day, there will be something that is truly a destination-worthy experience no matter what age,” said Lois Kilkka, Library Manager of ImaginOn.

ImaginOn opened in 2005 as an amazing facility for kids and teens, co-created by the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County and Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, featuring library resources, theatres, classrooms, computer labs, and a teen center. Located in uptown Charlotte at 300 E. Seventh Street, ImaginOn is easily accessible from the LYNX light rail line.

Since its founding in 1903 as a Carnegie Free Library, PLCMC has provided community service and outreach to the citizens of the Charlotte area. One of the premier libraries in the country, PLCMC has been recognized as a “Five Star” library in a national index of public library service from Library Journal and was named winner of the 2006 National Award for Library Service. The library sponsors a variety of community-based programs, from computer and Internet workshops to the award-winning Novello Festival of Reading, a celebration of the joys of reading and learning. With 24 locations, 1.4 million volumes, 79,000 DVDs, CDs and audiobooks, and a vast selection of titles available to download from the library’s web site, PLCMC is dedicated to its mission of expanding minds, empowering individuals and enriching the community.