Dinosaurs have taken over at the Livingston Public Library!
The Livingston Library’s display case features the amazing and extensive dinosaur collection of nine year old Livingston resident, Julian Zakkour, who has been an “amateur” paleontologist since he was 5 years old. His passion started when watching PBS shows Dinosaur Train and Dino Dan and discovering the dinosaur section in the Livingston Library. He absorbed the facts and history of these magnificent creatures like a sponge and quickly learned the difference between herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores and how they lived and died as if they were old friends. Trips to the Natural History Museum in New York City and dinosaur exhibits near and far also fueled his passion. Most of his family trips always include a trip to a museum or a dinosaur inspired attraction. He started to collect dinosaur figures in every shape, form and size and his family always knows what he wants for his birthday and on holidays!
The Jurassic Park and Jurassic World films and franchise made a great impact on his love of dinosaurs. His collection includes rare vintage Jurassic Park figures from all 3 films (Jurassic Park, Jurassic Park II and Jurassic Park III) and from the newer films Jurassic World and Jurassic World, the Lost Kingdom.
He considers himself a purist and favors toys that show the real form of the dinosaur but also loves the new hybrid toy figures as well.
His favorite dinosaur is the Spinosaurs. His dream would be to go on a dig and actually find a dinosaur fossil. He is currently in the 3rd grade at Harrison school. He would like to be a paleontologist when he grows up. He is very happy to share his collection with the Library to inspire other kids about the wonderful world of dinosaurs!
This colorful and enthralling display will last till January 26.
-Archana Chiplunkar, Adult Services Librarian