Where stories, culture, and play come together
City Heights Library
As part of the Playful Learning Initiative in San Diego, the City Heights Library is being transformed into a space where everyday library visits become opportunities for learning and connection. The project includes playful, bilingual signage designed to spark engagement between children and caregivers through prompts that explore early math, literacy, storytelling, and nature. Additional signage for adults provides simple ways to encourage conversation and playful interaction during family visits. A new Early Learning Center entrance features an I-Spy element with flags and animals representing the diverse countries and cultures of City Heights residents, promoting cultural connection and discussion. This installation creates a welcoming environment where families can play, learn, and celebrate their community’s rich diversity.
The Learning Goals
The City Heights Library supports family learning through playful experiences that strengthen early development across the 6Cs framework. Interactive signage builds content knowledge by turning everyday interactions into opportunities to practice math, literacy, storytelling, and nature-based observation. Caregiver prompts encourage communication, helping adults model conversation, ask open-ended questions, and expand children’s vocabulary. The upcoming I-Spy element at the Early Learning Center entrance, currently being fabricated, will promote cultural connection by featuring flags and animals that represent the diverse backgrounds of City Heights residents and inspiring families to share stories about their own heritage. Together, these experiences encourage curiosity, creativity, and shared discovery between children and caregivers.
The Team
The City Heights Library project was created through a collaboration between Playful Learning Landscapes, Price Philanthropies, and the San Diego Public Library. Kristin Lilley served as the graphic designer for the project’s signage, and Brandon Roth is fabricating the custom entrance to the Early Learning Center.
Supporters
The City Heights Library project was generously funded by Price Philanthropies, whose support of the Playful Learning Initiative in San Diego made this installation possible.
