As dangerously cold temperatures make playgrounds across the United States unfriendly, more parents are looking for affordable or, better yet, free “third spaces” where kids can play and burn off some steam. An option? Indoor playgrounds in libraries.
Recently, TikTok has caught fire in the debate between librarians who believe that libraries are not the right place for these indoor jungle gyms and parents who see the library as an easy solution to their gaming problems.
Proponents of indoor playgrounds in libraries argue that libraries can evolve to serve diverse community needs, including providing a safe and accessible environment for children to play during inclement weather. period. Indoor playgrounds can potentially encourage families to visit these cultural centers more regularly, strengthening a sense of community engagement.
However, opponents express concerns about the potential disruption to the tranquil environment traditionally associated with libraries. Some librarians worry that the inclusion of playground equipment may compromise the primary function of libraries as spaces for reading, learning, and reflection. Plus, in a world where libraries are already underfunded and understaffed, the responsibility to keep these places clean and tidy falls on overworked librarians.
The discussion came to a head in a recent TikTok that has now gone viral. A librarian Abby, who stopped by @24hourlibrary, is teaching people how complex the issue is.
“Libraries — particularly public libraries in the United States — are already doing too much with too little,” he said in the clip. “We don’t have enough budget. We don’t have enough staff. Often we do not have suitable facilities to work. In many ways, we’re already trying to navigate this difficult walk of making sure there are quiet places for people to work while also being a suitable place for children to learn and grow and yes — to some extent — play.”
Whichever side of the debate on playgrounds in libraries it is clear that you need more free or affordable third spaces for children. Restaurant playgrounds that require food purchases or expensive trampoline gyms may not be the only options for children who need a place to escape and play.
