![The Harris Branch Youth Courtyard, which borders the Harris Branch Youth Services area, features benches, picnic tables and a freshly manicured landscape.](https://www.mphpl.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Harris-16x9-1-1024x576.jpg)
We are thrilled to announce the opening of the Harris Branch Youth Courtyard. Landscape architects with DLZ designed the 4,000-square-foot concrete courtyard that borders part of the library’s north wall. Construction on the outdoor project began early this year. The new youth courtyard entrance is located in the Youth Services area along the library’s north side.
MPHPL Director of Operations Dena Wargo said, “The youth courtyard was created to provide more space and opportunities for families with children to use the library. We are thrilled to have this new library space.”
MPHPL Maintenance Manager Rick Rittenhouse said contractors collaborated to bring the area to life by incorporating the existing trees and topography. “We can’t thank Acorn Landscaping and Excavating and Trademark Irrigation, LLC enough for the high level of knowledge and professionalism their crews demonstrated with the quality fencing installation, a lawn sprinkler system and creating our new landscape,” said Rittenhouse.
“It is wonderful to see how the area transformed from a space we were not utilizing to a courtyard where families can frequent when we have pleasant weather. Now families have more options to be simultaneously at the library and outside,” Wargo said.
Jennifer Ludwig, MPHPL Director of Patron Services said, “The revitalized space gives the library more outdoor venue options when planning future youth programs and activities such as our Storytime sessions.”
The rebirth of the space allows families to enjoy the Harris Youth Courtyard in the presence of plants and trees. Other new elements include a perimeter fence, benches, picnic tables and light bollards.
The Harris Youth Courtyard is open seasonally and weather permitting. Families are welcome to bring a blanket, pack a picnic and make the most of the space during our Harris Branch operating hours. To learn more about our other MPHPL courtyards, visit mphpl.org/courtyards.