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Treasures of our Memorial Library The Picture-Books Section This very popular section of the Youth Services Division of our library is widely considered to be highly important, as it fosters in our youngest patrons a love of books in general and teaches them to regard the library as a place for happy adventures. Here, many a young brain develops an urge to learn more about the stories they see depicted in illustrations, and surely hastens the acquisition of reading skills. The Children's picture-book section was born in 1993, when the great extension of the building took place. Despite its popularity, the section has always been handicapped to some extent by restricted space as it is bordered by other departments which also feel the pressures of high "demand". Thanks to a recent donation of $6,780 by the Friends of the Library, the picture-books area has been reorganized and refurbished. At one point in their history, the picture-books had to give up some space to clearance of a fire exit. Now, with a modified floor plan, the section seems more open and is certainly safer in case of emergencies. Under the enthusiastic direction of Julia Hedley and her talented staff, the picture-book section is usually a hive of activity with happy youngsters of a wide range of ages talking excitedly over the books they are obviously enjoying. The money donated by the Friends has been mostly spent already and Julia Hedley says it has been a real boon. It has paid for a new bank of bookshelves, new tables and chairs and repainting of the walls for an enhanced "homey" air. It has been a real privilege for us to help in this very worthwhile project. It will surely bring "dividends" for many years to come. Incidentally, we must acknowledge the extensive help in the use of the picture-books section, given by the mothers and caregivers of our young patrons. Every day many of them steer their youngsters into this area and ensure that their charges get a useful "eyeful" and "earful".