ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is a groundbreaking collaboration between the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the Children's Theatre of Charlotte. This innovative 102,000-square-foot facility in Charlotte's vibrant cultural arts district opened its doors on October 8, 2005, to inspire and cultivate imagination, creativity, and literacy in children and teens.
Designed by Gantt Huberman Architects and Holzman Moss Bottino Architecture, ImaginOn is a testament to the power of storytelling and interactive learning. The center combines a state-of-the-art library with a professional theater, creating a unique environment where young minds can explore, learn, and grow.
As the first LEED-certified public facility in Mecklenburg County, ImaginOn also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, earning a silver-level certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. This colorful, whimsical, and unexpected space invites visitors to embark on an adventure at every turn, making it a must-visit destination for families in Charlotte and beyond.
Highlights
- A collaborative venture between Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the Children's Theatre of Charlotte
- 102,000-square-foot facility with innovative spaces for learning and creativity
- LEED-certified "green" building with a focus on sustainability
Photo: https://www.imaginon.org
Contents
Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Photo: https://www.imaginon.org
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is worth visiting with kids because it offers a unique blend of literary and theatrical experiences designed to captivate young minds. Children aged 3-18 will immerse themselves in a world of imagination with interactive exhibits, cutting-edge technology, and engaging performances tailored to their interests and developmental stages.
The center's diverse offerings, from puppet shows for toddlers to digital media labs for teens, ensure that every child finds something exciting and educational. With its focus on fostering creativity and literacy through hands-on experiences, ImaginOn provides an environment where learning feels like play, making it an irresistible destination for curious young minds.
Family-friendly Features
- Interactive exhibits suitable for all ages
- Comfortable reading nooks and play areas
- On-site café for refreshments during visits
Exploring ImaginOn's Innovative Spaces
ImaginOn's 102,000-square-foot facility is a marvel of design and functionality, offering a variety of spaces that cater to different age groups and interests:
- Spangler Children's Library: Located on the first floor, this library houses an extensive collection of books and materials for children from birth through fifth grade. It also includes resources for teachers, parents, and caregivers.
- The Loft: A 4,000-square-foot space on the third floor dedicated to teens, featuring collaborative work areas and a library with the latest DVDs, books, graphic novels, and CDs.
- Tech Central: A computer lab for teens with over thirty computers and various activities for visitors under 19 years old.
- McColl Family Theatre: A 570-seat proscenium theater with a trapped stage and single purchase fly system, used for professional theater productions.
- Wells Fargo Playhouse: A 250-seat theater with a modified thrust configuration and reconfigurable proscenium, hosting performances and film series.
Interactive Exhibits and Learning Areas
Photo: https://www.imaginon.org
One of ImaginOn's most innovative features is Studio i, a cutting-edge digital media lab where teens can create stop-motion and computer-generated animations and accompanying soundtracks. This space has been instrumental in fostering creativity and technical skills among young visitors, with teens using Studio i to produce national award-winning public service announcements.
The center also boasts interactive exhibits, encouraging hands-on learning and exploration. These exhibits are designed to stimulate curiosity and engage children in various aspects of storytelling, from traditional narratives to digital media.
Within walking distance is Children's Theatre of Charlotte which we also recommend for a family visit.
Programs and Activities for Children and Teens
ImaginOn offers a wide range of programs and activities tailored to different age groups:
- Storytelling sessions and puppet shows for younger children
- Educational workshops covering various topics, including STEM activities
- Teen-focused programs that encourage creativity and digital literacy
- Early childhood development initiatives to support learning from the earliest ages
These programs complement the center's physical resources, providing guided experiences that enhance learning and foster a love for reading and the arts.
ImaginOn's Impact on Education and Creativity
Photo: https://www.imaginon.org
The center's unique approach to combining library resources with theatrical experiences has had a significant impact on education and creativity in Charlotte:
- Fostering imagination and literacy: ImaginOn encourages children to develop a love for reading and storytelling by providing a space where stories come to life.
- Promoting arts and culture: Professional theater productions expose children to high-quality performing arts from an early age.
- Community benefits: ImaginOn is a hub for family-friendly activities, contributing to Charlotte's cultural landscape and providing valuable resources for educators and parents.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit ImaginOn with children is during weekday afternoons or Saturday mornings when the center is less crowded. Special events and performances occur on weekends, so check the schedule beforehand. The center is typically less busy on weekdays after 3 PM during the school year.
Recommended Duration: Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the various spaces and activities.
Our Resume
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center is a one-of-a-kind facility in Charlotte, NC, combining a children's library with a professional theater. This 102,000-square-foot space offers interactive exhibits, storytelling sessions, and cutting-edge technology for children and teens. With its focus on literacy, creativity, and sustainability, ImaginOn provides an engaging educational experience for families, making it a must-visit destination in Charlotte's cultural district.
