A new Library program celebrates the works of talented young artists
by Lorne Chambers | Editor
The recently re-opened West Ashley Library has undergone a slew of cosmetic improvements and technological upgrades courtesy of a slice of the $108.5 million referendum that was passed by Charleston County voters back in 2014. The money was earmarked to upgrade all the 13 existing libraries in the Charleston County system as well as plans to build five new libraries, each of them more than twice the size and up to nearly seven times the size of the modest South Windermere location, which was built in 1964.
Prior to the 2014 referendum vote, the now 60-year-old branch was nearly on the chopping block. But an outcry from the community saved it from the wrecking ball.
In December of 2022, the West Ashley branch was closed to the public and underwent some major and much-needed renovations. A little more than two years later, it reopened with a new, airy, open floor plan, designated working and reading spaces, and a streamlined computer and printer area. One of the most notable upgrades was a much-improved children’s area with a life-size dollhouse and string lights on a paper mâché tree sprouting out of a corner.
Now, as of last month, that kids’ section is also receiving some new artwork to go along with all the upgrades. These colorful masterpieces, which rotate monthly, have been created by local students in 1st-5th grades as part of a new monthly art initiative, celebrating and showcasing the work of young artists.
“When we were gearing up to reopen after our renovation, a special gallery space seemed like a good idea,” says Assistant Branch Manager Andrea LaFalce. “Now this program has grown into something beautiful that brings our community together and also makes kids feel celebrated and special. I hope it helps them know that they are supported and that they can achieve great things.”
Each month, the West Ashley Branch Library releases a new theme and offers a limited number of packets for pickup. According to LaFalce, there are eight spots each month, but there are plans to increase this number by a few as interest continues to grow. The packets contain a welcome letter, instructions, a canvas fitted to the library’s exhibit space, and basic art supplies to get the kids started. Although, they are welcome and encouraged to use their own materials says LaFalce.
The packets also contain two copies of an invitation (more can be requested if needed) to a gallery reception evening, which is a special evening where family, friends, and the public are invited to preview the new works of art and celebrate the featured artists’ accomplishments.
“We strive to make our youth space an inviting space for our community. Artwork is very much celebrated here, and we like to display all of the drawings, paintings, and more that kids make,” says LaFalce.
The first reception was held on Wednesday, May 1 and the theme was “Sunflowers.” The work of eight artists was on display all month in the kids’ section of the library, and there was cheese, grapes, cookies, lemonade, and other refreshments for the dozens of parents, grandparents, friends, and members of the media who showed up to celebrate the young artists.
“We had some interesting takes on that theme, including a view from above, a view of the flower’s roots, and a girl wearing a sunflower dress,” says LaFalce, adding that thetheme for the June exhibit is “What does Summer Mean to You?”
This month’s artists will be celebrated during a reception on Friday, June 3 from 5-6:30 p.m. Once the June display is up, LaFalce says the next round of packets will be made available, and that theme will be “Design your Dream Treehouse.” The artwork is framed before it is hung on display and kids may return once an exhibit is over to pick up their work.
The West Ashley Branch Library is located at 45 Windermere Blvd. For more information, call (843) 766-6635 or visit www.ccpl.org/branches/west-ashley.
