One of the most impressive things about our rural libraries is how much they manage to do on very little. The Ainsworth Library is an excellent example of Yankee thrift and ingenuity. Housed in an 1833 brick building, formerly a private home, the Ainsworth is coping very creatively in a tight space, given the library's expanded role as an Internet provider and information center.
On the left above you'll see a bookcase cleverly built into a staircase landing.
On the right, the public Internet terminal is tucked beneath the same staircase.
Local builders have helped out by building bookcases which make use of every inch of wall space - a testament to community involvement.
Here, a local artist transformed a plain table in the children's area to a work of art that forms the centerpiece of the room.
Given the limitations of the current space, it is noteworthy that the librarians have taken extra care to make sure that their library customers are comfortable and that the collection is inviting. Note the chairs positioned in front of the biography section on the second floor. A convenient chair is a small detail, but one which can make all the difference to someone needing a seat from which to browse.
Thanks to Assistant Librarian, Roberta Tracy, for showing me around on a busy day, and appreciation to Librarian, Flora O'Hara, for her fine work.
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