Open a Book in the New Reading Garden at Boyd County Public Library
Gwen Akers
The Ashland Beacon
For some, there is little joy paralleled with snuggling up with a good book, and with the newest additions to the Boyd County Library’s outdoor reading garden, there will be even more opportunities to do so.
Currently, the Boyd County Public Library Main Branch is undergoing some major changes as they are updating their Reading Garden in order to create a more fun, safe, and comfortable environment for its patrons. In the past, the Reading Garden made up a courtyard on the side of the library, which was walled in with concrete. These walls suffered water damage over the years, and while it has been a cherished part of the library since its construction, it is now going to receive a much-needed update.
“The reading garden was used, but it was only used a few months out of the year when it was really nice out there,” explained Library Director Debbie Cosper, who has been with the library for 20 years. “We hope with this being more open that it will be a place for children to come and families because we've got the fountain right next to the park and hopefully people can come and sit out.
The new Reading Garden will feature improved climate control, an upgraded entrance and improved accessibility for patrons. Cosper described the garden as featuring a wrought iron fence that allows patrons to see out into the park, as well as a fan for ventilation during the summer months. This will keep the area from becoming stuffy or hot during particularly warm days. Plans are also in the works for a portable heating system, so that the area can be utilized year-round.
“You'll be able to sit out almost year-round, and we're even thinking about getting one of those little portable heaters that we could put out on really beautiful days,” expressed Cosper.
The memorial bricks from the front of the library will also be moved to the reading garden, where they will hold a place of prominence without posing uneven terrain. The front of the library will also be concreted soon in order to make the main entrance more accessible.
“The contractor made the suggestion of moving them [the memorial bricks] out into the reading garden under the new entrance and it’s like: ‘that’s perfect!’” detailed Cosper.
This project was made possible through several years of saving on the library’s end and has resulted in a $415,000 contract being awarded to Capital Builders for the makeover.
The area will be a perfect place for friends and family to gather, read or hang out and enjoy the beauty of the Ashland City Park.
Work began Oct. 2 and is set to be finished by Jan. in the hopes of creating a year-round space for the community to use and love. This new area is sure to create a fun and enjoyable spot for new and old readers alike. Until construction finishes however, make sure to keep reading!
For more information, check out the library’s website at thebookplace.org.
