by Kelsey Shea

A proposed expansion of the Children’s Museum might not only mean more space for the museum, but for the Northside community as well.

The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is considering leasing the old Allegheny Library building in Allegheny Center to expand the museum facilities and offer space for Northside organizations that would be free and accessible to residents.

“It is the collaborations, partnerships and community support that generate the need for more space,” said Chris Siefert, deputy director of The Children’s Museum. “Sure more space helps organizations grow; but honestly, a major reason why we can point to successes is because of the support of the North Side community. And these successes dictate the need for more publically accessible and community oriented spaces.”

To further explore the possibility, the Children’s Museum will have an open house in the library building on Wednesday, August 14 which will include tours, opportunities for public comment and a live music performance.

Residents, businesses and stake holders are encouraged to attend the open house which will be from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. to hear from Children’s Museum staff and partners about plans for the building and to submit their own opinions and ideas about uses for the space.

The open house will conclude at 7 p.m. with a performance by Central Northside musician Tom Roberts.