By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer
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Westborough – There was a grand opening July 15 celebrating the newest Little Free Library located at 22 Gary Circle in Westborough. The event included a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of the neighborhood book sharing box, as well as family-friendly activities, story time with the local children’s librarian, a book swap, crafts and refreshments.
Little Free Library is part of a worldwide nonprofit organization, which was started in 2009 and whose mission is to inspire the love of reading while building community and sparking creativity. There are currently over 70,000 libraries registered in 80 countries. The idea is to take a book and leave a book.
The creation of the newest Little Free Library was a family affair for the Gavalis family. Former elementary school teacher and mother of two young children, Meghan Gavalis said she loves kids, books and sharing her passion of books with kids.
“My own children Emma and Jack love books and visiting our local library, where their aunt is the head librarian of the Children’s Department, and are extremely excited to help run our own Little Free Library in our small community,” she said.
Meghan has always loved the idea of the Little Free Library since visiting family in Oregon.
“They are everywhere,” she said. “Each with its own quirky, unique personality.”
Creating their library was a true labor of love.
Meghan designed the library, her husband Robb constructed it, and her daughter Emma painted it a vibrant teal color.
“It’s built using recycled materials we had left over from previous projects,” Meghan said.
The library is located on her front lawn and she hopes it becomes a neighborhood destination. It is currently stocked with about 50 donated books including board books, children’s books, chapter books and even a small section of adult books. A guestbook for visitors to sign, bookmarks to share and dog treats also have a space inside the library.
About 55 people of all ages attended the grand opening ceremony.
“It was fabulous,” said Meghan. “Everyone seemed happy to be there and appreciative.”
The Gavalis’s Little Free Library is officially registered and displays the official logo and the assigned charter number 75,078, which makes it easier for anyone to find their library from the organization’s website. The family hopes that it is well visited and have books ready to keep the selection fresh and plentiful.
“It not only belongs to us,” said Meghan, “but to the neighborhood.”
For more information or to find a nearby Little Free Library, visit www.littlefreelibrary.org.
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