Viewfinder: Library Tranforms into a Land of Candy

The Royal Oak Public Library youth area was transformed into the timeless Candy Land game Tuesday for area kids to enjoy. Youth Librarian Emily Trousdale came up with the idea and with the help of fellow youth librarian Amy Staples and 12 teen volunteers, more than 50 children enjoyed a life-size replica of the Milton Bradley board game.

Andrea Hoagland of Royal Oak brought her sons Trent and Jackson to the event. "We played Candy Land at home yesterday for the snow day," she said. Megan Daniels, a Royal Oak Middle School volunteer enjoyed watching the younger kids play the game with its candy prizes given along the colorful route.

"It's nice to see the kids get out of the house and play at the library," Daniels said. Penelope Day of Clawson said, "It's cool. It's like spring with all the color."

Staples said it took 12 teens an hour-and-a-half to build the life-size game board earlier this week. Staples and other library staff members made some of the more detailed pieces at home.

If you missed out on Candy Land, another game will be held 2 p.m. Saturday. Contact the library to reserve your spot.

The Candy Land event was one of many the library hosts for area youth. You can find upcoming events on its website, www.ropl.org, stop by in person or call (248) 246-3725.