I’m in Manchester, VT this weekend for Booktopia (a weekend full of authors and readers, created by Books on the Nightstand and now hosted by the Northshire Bookstore).
The first year I came up from Connecticut for Booktopia, four years ago, the new library was under construction. The second year my time didn’t jibe with the library’s open hours, but the third year–last year–I finally made it inside. It’s taken me a full year to get this post up, but better late than never and I’m here again, so it’s a perfect time.
This way to the library! I know I’m not the only one who gets excited when she sees this sign.
The modern design reflects the clean lines of traditional Vermont architecture.
Small windows adjacent to the large window in the photo above. The children’s section is along this side of the library.
There is SO MUCH marble in Manchester. The front of the library features a marble walkway and marble benches.
A view of the whole library.
The front entrance.
The foyer. Comfy seating and a cafe. To the right is a large community room, bathrooms, and access to the lower level. Straight ahead is the help desk and just to the left of that are doors to the children’s section.
Helpdesk, circulation, and new book displays.
The Loft – a dedicated space for middle schoolers.
Work tables in the stacks.
Comfy seating in the stacks.
Cather on the shelf.
I appreciate the clear, bold labeling – so easy for patrons to read and for staff to spot miss-shelved items.
Color coding makes alpha even easier! Speaking of color coding, the library uses the Glade System in their nonfiction section (which is NOT what is pictured above). The Glade System uses color coding to organize nonfiction categories. Check out the breakdown here.
Reading area. The periodicals section is to the right of the fireplace.
Frances Skinner Willing’s portrait hangs over the fireplace. She founded the first library in Manchester in 1897.
Standing in front of the fireplace, looking toward the front of the library. The help desk is way back in the upper righthand corner.
Computer stations.
The children’s section, which is through doors to the left of the help desk.
The community room. Behind me is a large screen for films. Those large doors open into the room with the fireplace. A patron told me they open them for large events.
Happy to see more of these water bottle filler stations popping up in libraries. (I first saw them in airports.)
Such a beautiful library. If you’re ever in the area, stop in for a visit. The librarians are friendly and happy to talk about their library.
The Manchester Community Library
138 Cemetery Avenue/ Route 7A
Manchester Center, VT 05255
mclvt.org
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