One of the main highlights of the space is a castle which includes many of Jackson’s favorite books and space for children to read. (Photo courtesy of Burlington Public Library) 
Jackson Walsh with his parents, Michelle and Harry. (Photo courtesy of the Walsh family) 
An activity wall was set up in the space for children to use. (Photo courtesy of Burlington Public Library)
BURLINGTON — Library Director Michael Wick is pleased to announce the unveiling of Jackson’s Reading Nook at the Burlington Public Library, 22 Sears St.
The space, located in the picture book area of the children’s section, honors Jackson Walsh, a one-and-a-half-year-old boy who passed away on Dec. 26, 2018 due to Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood. His parents, Harry and Michelle Walsh, asked those interested to make donations to the library in Jackson’s name, as the space was one the family enjoyed during Jackson’s life.
“What followed was an overwhelming outpouring of donations made in Jackson’s name,” Wick said. “Through conversations with Harry and Michelle, it was decided they wanted to make a significant impact on the library by using the funds to improve the Children’s Room, specifically a project that would be age appropriate for Jackson.”
The space includes a new love seat, a wall of activity boards, space for children to read and the library’s puppet collection. One of the most significant additions is a wooden castle that has benches and houses books Jackson loved to read.
“Harry and Michelle have shown incredible strength and care in the light of such a tragedy, to turn it into an opportunity to make a significant impact for other children and their families,” Wick said.
The donation was also used to purchase a play kitchen with toys for the children’s atrium area and new musical instruments to be used during the Songs & Stories program at the library.
Wick would like to thank all of the individual donors and Rolta Advizex, an IT company in town, for their generous contributions to Jackson’s Reading Nook.
The space was officially unveiled on Saturday, Jan. 11. Harry and Michelle Walsh, along with their immediate family, attended a private unveiling before the library opened that day.
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