The Lillian DesMarias Youth Library in Chillicothe has expanded its educational offerings with the installation of outdoor pentatonic chimes, made possible through a Rotary District 6040 District Grant awarded in October 2025.
The grant supported a project led by Rotary 2025-2026 President Ben Arthaud, providing funding for the musical installation as part of a broader effort to encourage learning through interactive experiences. The outdoor chimes are designed to promote music education while offering visitors a hands-on opportunity to explore sound and creativity.
Library officials said the addition supports cognitive, social, and emotional development by making music more accessible to children and families. The project also reflects the library’s ongoing commitment to providing educational resources that benefit the community.
Installation of the pentatonic chimes was completed by Arthaud and his team from Pinpoint Tech. Following the installation, library staff became the first to test the instruments, marking the beginning of future music-based programming and activities at the facility.
Additional safety improvements are planned alongside the project. Safety bollards will be installed at the end of the sidewalk to help protect visitors, particularly young children. Rotarians are funding those improvements with local resources, reinforcing the organization’s focus on community safety as well as education.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned to celebrate the completion of the project and recognize the partnership among local Rotary organizations. Members of the Interact Club, the After-Hours Club, and the Noon Club are expected to participate, highlighting Rotary’s collaborative efforts to support education and strengthen community engagement.
Rotary leaders said the installation represents the organization’s continuing investment in music education and community enrichment. By adding interactive musical features to the youth library, the project aims to enhance learning opportunities while encouraging creativity, engagement, and holistic development for visitors of all ages.