By AP/KWMU
St. Louis, MO – Federal funding of $575,000 is secured to help build a new "Magic Library" to promote child literacy in St. Louis.
In separate news releases, Republican Senator Jim Talent and Democratic Congressman Dick Gephardt say they have secured the money as part of a partnership with the Magic House.
It's a Kirkwood attraction promoting scientific learning and creativity through hands-on displays.
The Magic Library will be 8,000 square feet and be built at the site of the St. Louis Public Library headquarters
downtown. Twelve "Magic Spot" locations will also be added at branches of the library around St. Louis.
The goal is to encourage literacy and learning, notably for children in disadvantaged neighborhoods.