Blake Memorial Library in East Corinth, Vermont

In 1949 this building was erected to replace the town's original 1902 library which was destroyed in a fire.  For more on the Blake Memorial's history, check out the website at http://www.blakememorial.org/.   I was told by librarian, Ken Linge, that the original building was a grander structure.  However, while the 1949 building is simple it is also harmonious, practical and pleasing.



On the main floor I found an interesting take on shelving, with bookshelves built above a counter and cabinets below, almost as you'd find in a kitchen.  I've never seen anything quite like this in a library, but the staff has made good use of the counter as display space.  The cabinets below the counter probably provide convenient storage for library supplies.

When the library began to outgrow its existing space on the main floor, it was decided to finish the basement and to move the children's area downstairs in order to give the book collection room to grow.  The photo on the right shows the staircase from the main floor.  Note the rabbit, painted by Vermont artist, Peggy Watson, at the foot of the staircase.

Above that, going up the staircase, is an illustration dedicated to the library's youngest patrons by well known children's author, illustrator and local resident, Gail Gibbons.  For more on Gail, see her website at: http://www.gailgibbons.com/

The rabbit above isn't the only example of Peggy Watson's wonderful work.  This mural, a Vermont farm scene,  transforms the children's area.
It feels almost like walking directly into a child's picture book.   


The ground floor also doubles as programming space. In the photo on right, note the free art prints obtained by the librarian through Picturing America, a program from the National Endowment for Humanities.  To learn more about this initiative, you can go to the website at http://picturingamerica.neh.gov/. These prints provide visual interest, while the comfy sofas and folding chairs offer both an informal reading area and a good space for library programs.  This photo doesn't show how large and flexible this area actually is, but it could hold a very respectable crowd!

 While the Blake Memorial Library is beginning to outgrow its 1949 building, the existing space is used most imaginatively and is appealing to the public.  There is good attention to aesthetics and to the marketing of the library's collection. The fact that there appears to be very strong community involvement with the library attests to its importance in the life of the town.  I want to thank Librarian, Ken Linge, for showing me around and for taking time to chat with me.  He is doing impressive work.