Since August 24, Rosie’s Dream Machine has been traveling through the six public libraries in Des Moines, Iowa, inviting young readers to share their "library dreams." This interactive exhibit is a Rube Goldberg machine, a complex contraption designed to perform a simple task through a series of chain reactions. Children can participate by writing their ideas on paper, placing them in a plastic ball, and launching it through a winding path that passes by miniature models of the six libraries before ending in a collection bin. The project encourages imaginative input from young patrons, who can suggest anything from new books or toys to changes in the children’s areas or additions to the Library of Things Junior, a collection of games and equipment available for borrowing. The idea came from the community engagement team at the Des Moines Public Library, according to Aaron Gernes, head of marketing and communications for the library network, as reported by WHO 13 on September 10. This team, which regularly works in schools, collaborated with the library’s engineers to build the machine. Rosie, the machine’s namesake, is the library’s pink, fuzzy mascot, known as the "book monster" by Gernes. The Des Moines Public Library Foundation has provided $10,000 to support the initiative, helping to bring some of the children's imaginative ideas into reality. At the end of the year, the library will review all the collected suggestions and inform the children whose proposals are chosen. Not all the ideas are meant to change the library’s structure or collection. Some children have requested things like puppies or unicorns, which may be more symbolic than practical. Others have made simpler requests, such as young Josiah Graves, who asked for "more books about dinosaurs" because he enjoys the subject. These varied suggestions highlight the creativity and diverse interests of the young participants. The installation will remain open for visitors until October 2 at the Central Library, offering a unique and engaging way for children to contribute to their local library experience.