Northeast Ohio Regional Library System

Elyria Library West River Branch Story Time Room Reopens

The Elyria Public Library officially reopened the Story Time Room at the West River Branch after an approximately 2-month renovation. The Library hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony along with some royal treatment with a once upon a (story) time on Wednesday, June 4 at 10:30 a.m.

The morning began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring remarks from the Library’s Director Jennifer Starkey, donor Ron Capasso, and community collaborative Ready, Set, Go…to Kindergarten’s Julie Piazza-King.


Director Jennifer Starkey applauds as Bernadine Capasso cuts the ribbon along with son and donor Ron Capasso.

“We are thrilled to reopen the Story Time Room at West River and can’t wait for you to see it,” said Marketing and Communications Director Jennifer Harmon. “We are so appreciative of the donation from the Capasso family allowing the space to be reimagined, designed to welcome and instill a love of reading to our youngest patrons for years to come.”

Renovations include freshly installed carpet, paint, and cabinetry along with the addition of updated technology and furniture. The room also features a new, welcoming entry way extending the nature-theme in the Children’s Room. This renovation is in honor of Ralph and Bernadine Capasso was made possible by a gift donation from Ron and Rose Marie Capasso.

Afterward the ceremony, nearly 100 attendees were delighted with a special story time featuring stories, princesses, crafts, and cookies.