The first of Greenport’s “Little Free Libraries” was erected in Mitchell Park today, one of five that will be installed throughout the village in the coming weeks. (See previous story.)
The small ceremony was attended by village trustees, educators, representatives from the Floyd Memorial Library and the public.
The idea of installing the mini libraries, from which anyone is welcome to borrow a book, was the brainchild of Greenport elementary principal Joe Tsaveras and reading teacher Amy Gammon. Tech teacher Mike Davies and some of his students built the boxes and decorated them.
Mayor George Hubbard was also on hand for the installation, saying that the project was a great idea and that the village board “wholeheartedly supports” it.
‘I think it’s really neat,” said Hubbard. “Something else for the kids to do when their parents are having fun; come over and get a book. It’s a real smart idea; I think it’s great and hope the kids will use it.”
Greenport School Superintendent David Gamberg called the project a statement about literacy and promoting reading.
“It makes a visible statement about the quaintness, the beauty and the service; working together with the Floyd Memorial Library. It’s a demonstration of service to community, commitment to community and a partnership. For all of those reasons, I’m just delighted,” he said.
He said the libraries would benefit not only Greenport’s children, but visitors from out of town as well.
The five boxes, which cost $600 in total to construct, were funded by Greenport School and the Village of Greenport.
SoutholdLOCAL photos by Katharine Schroeder
