The Newbury Public Library is pleased to announce it has received a grant of $3,900 from Sustaining the Humanities through the American Rescue Plan (SHARP) from the New Hampshire Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). This grant will be used to create an engaging outdoor area for the library, with seating and space for programs.

 

The staff and Trustees of the Newbury Public Library are thrilled to accept the grant funding, as funds will help enhance programs and services the library already provides by expanding the space the library can use.

 

“The way that we interact in public spaces has changed over the past two years, and we have learned to appreciate the outdoor spaces we have, since it has allowed us to continue to provide services during a time when distancing was necessary,” Library Director Lea McBain said. “Even in a post-COVID world having an engaging outdoor space will allow us to better connect with our environment, engage with our community, and enjoy our natural spaces while using the library and its services.”

 

Since the summer of 2021, the library has held small library programs such as story time and book discussions outdoors, weather permitting. The SHARP funds will help the library create a more comfortable space for programs such as these, plus allow it to provide a more permanent, yet accessible seating area for patrons of all ages with picnic tables, benches, and umbrellas for shade. The space will be used for children’s programs such as outdoor movies and summer reading, as well as for patrons who simply wish to spend their day at the library or work remotely outside — as the library’s WiFi is accessible 24-7.  This new outdoor space will complement the library’s expansion plans as well, which address the need for collection and program space for all ages.

 

The Newbury Public Library is committed to cultural and educational programs for all ages. To learn more about the Newbury Public Library’s mission, its programs and services, or its plans for a future expansion, visit their website at https://newburynhlibrary.net or call 603-763-5803.