By Jaci Cooper, Director of Projects and Planning
As spring arrives, I find myself reflecting on an inspiring story shared by Audrey, a Young 5s teacher, and her niece Eloise. Together, they set (and accomplished!) an ambitious yet heartwarming goal for 2024: to visit all 20 of KDL's WonderKnook play spaces and collect a sticker for each visit on KDL’s WonderKnook visit map.
Hearing about their adventures emphasized that creating core memories through play isn’t just for children—it’s for us grown-ups, too. This goal also resonated deeply with me because I also enjoy taking my niece to these magical spaces.
Audrey and Eloise’s journey is a perfect example of how libraries can be a place for exploration, goal-setting and meaningful bonding. Their story highlights some of the biggest reasons why visiting WonderKnooks is the perfect goal to set with that special child in your life—whether it is for 2025, spring break, or before those fleeting years pass and they are too big!
Bonding & Learning Through Play
For Audrey and Eloise, this goal was about more than just visiting different play spaces—it was about spending intentional time together.
“I thought it would be fun for us to have a goal that we could do as an aunt/niece adventure,” Audrey shared. “We love going to libraries together, so I asked her if she wanted to visit all the library play places. Of course, she was all in!”
Their visits became more than just a checklist. They tied in library programs and special events, from petting animals at a Critter Barn program to meeting reindeer and Santa during the holidays. Every visit became a memory, every sticker on the map a reminder of an experience shared.
Kindergarten Readiness
As an early childhood educator, Audrey sees firsthand how important play is in preparing kids for school.
“I love how Kent District Library combines play and literacy into the same space,” she said. “Providing children with as many language-building experiences as possible gets them ready for all the learning they will do in school.”
Play builds background knowledge, expands vocabulary and fosters curiosity—all key elements of kindergarten readiness. The WonderKnooks make reading and play accessible to everyone, ensuring that no child has to miss out on these crucial early learning experiences.
Exploring the Community
Each WonderKnook is designed to reflect the community it serves, making visits even more special.
“I loved how each WonderKnook represented the community it’s in,” Audrey said. “The boat in East Grand Rapids, the train in Alto, the apple trees in Kent City—so much thought was put into all the spaces!”
For Eloise, her favorite was the Walker WonderKnook, which features animal-themed play. “She loves pretend play with animals,” Audrey said, noting that it’s a passion that runs in the family—Eloise’s mom is a veterinarian.
Beyond the play spaces themselves, visiting different branches introduced Eloise to new neighborhoods and experiences, helping her build an appreciation for the library system and the communities it serves.
Goal Setting Made Fun
Setting and achieving goals has been a part of Eloise’s life for years. When she was two, she completed the 1,000 Hours Outside Challenge. At three, she set out to visit a new park every week—and ended up visiting 110 parks! She has also completed both the KDL and Grand Rapids Public Library (GRPL) 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenges in just eight months.
This year’s WonderKnook goal was another step in her journey of setting and achieving meaningful goals.
“I hope Eloise remembers how exciting it was to get the sticker at each library and how it felt to complete the mission,” Audrey said. “She put on all the stickers herself and loved checking to see how many she had been to and how many she had left.”
A Call to Action
If you’re looking for a meaningful, family-focused goal this year, consider visiting the WonderKnooks in our 20 branches. Stop by any branch for a map and visit kdl.org/wonderknook for more information.
Audrey’s advice to others considering a similar goal?
“Just do it! If it seems overwhelming to visit all the libraries, start small with 5-10. You don’t have to give yourself a deadline—it can take a couple of years, and that’s okay! The important part is getting out there and experiencing all that Kent District Library has to offer. It will benefit your children greatly.”
Whether you’re a parent, aunt, uncle, nanny, grandparent or family friend, these spaces offer something special for kids and adults alike. You’ll create memories, deepen your relationships and maybe even discover a newfound appreciation for the power of play.
Not sure where to start? Take this fun quiz!: WonderKnook Quiz
Add a comment to: WonderKnook Challenge: Can You Visit Them All?