Andover Public Library has received a federal LSTA grant to establish the Andover Public Library Community Learning Garden east of our Library building on our Bishop property. The Andover Rotary has pledged a 25% matching amount, making the garden possible. The money, with other donations we have received for the Garden, totals more than $10,000. Of course, I have in mind a Million Dollar beauty spot for Andover. Luckily, the Pymatuning Garden Club, The Andover Area Chamber of Commerce, staff of the Library, the Andover Village Council, local businesses, and other wonderful organizations are partnering with the Library. It will not happen overnight, but the Library will make sure that everyone finds benefit and joy from our efforts.

Ground Breaking for the Learning Garden was April 15, 2010, with a happy crowd representing Rotary, PV Schools, Andover Public Library Board of Trustees, readers and staff, Pymatuning Garden Club, and Andover Village Council.

The Community Learning Garden project consists of the following parts:

• Walkway and a focal point with a Plaque dedicated to the crucial role of Andover Rotary


• WiFi throughout


• Four main gardens around the central area


• Benches for reading, admiring the garden, or laptop use


• Square Foot Garden boxes with vegetables/herbs/flowers


• Programs about Square Foot Gardening, healthy eating from the garden, garden crafts, basketry, using herbs, culinary creations from the garden, Summer Reading activities such as Jungle Terry's visit, and outdoor children's and family events


• Library Materials (books, magazines, DVDs) for everyone to enjoy

We are so pleased to be able to focus on such a positive project, even at a time Library funding is at a all-time low. We feel many of the things that enhance our quality of life can be enjoyed together through community partnerships which overcome financial barriers.