Blog

In our recent community survey, better use of our outdoor space was your highest priority. As a result, the library is growing its outdoor area into an even more vibrant, welcoming space for all.

Thanks to a generous donation to kick-off our spring fundraising goal, we are beginning with a project to honor former Gallery Coordinator and local artist Connie Bailey. We will highlight her love of nature and art by building a birch tree grove with a bench to enjoy the view.

We are using our existing gazebo, which was gifted in honor of Vicki Bode, and its accompanying weeping cherry trees as the beginning footprint of the plan. It will extend out to the tulip poplar that was planted in honor of Torri Santo Pelletier. The size and capacity of this area will ensure better environmental outcomes for the existing plants and encourage more pollinators to stay in the area. All new plants will be native to New England which support native birds’ habitat and create important “leaf litter” where native insects can overwinter.

To begin this project, our gardening team selected an ecologically friendly method of eliminating the existing grass. This process, known as sheeting mulching, involves laying down recycled paper and topping it with wood chips which protects soil structure and organisms, retains organic matter on site, and avoids the need for large equipment or bringing in loam or compost which could contain invasive pests.

The grove will also include a dead hedge, which is a barrier constructed from branches or saplings that have been cut due to pruning or general clean-up. This organic structure has many benefits, in particular, as a shelter for insects, birds, and small mammals who are essential wildlife for our grounds. It also reduces the waste from trimming and eliminating invasive plants. As our current children’s garden was certified by the UMaine Cooperative Extension last year as a pollinator-friendly space, we felt this was an important inclusion for developing the area and providing more educational opportunities.

Our wooded Eagle Path will also see some improvements and expansion over the next few months. While the existing trail is nice for a short walk, we are planning to create a perimeter path that will take advantage of the natural shape and shade of the tree-line. There is also the possibility of adding a Storywalk, outdoor musical instruments, and a programming area.

In collaboration with the Library Board of Trustees, this project was designed and is being implemented by Sweet Fern Garden & Design with a core group of volunteers including Master Gardeners.

If you have any questions about this project, please contact Director Katherine Webber at 207-725-1727 or director@topshamlibrary.org.