The Magic of Summer
Summer is almost here & now is the perfect time to think about creating some new memories by going on an adventure or two, or perhaps you’d rather just stay home and read about them. At the beginning of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Bilbo Baggins climbed out of his hobbit hole at Bag End and exclaimed, “I’m going on an adventure!” Admittedly, this line is not in the book and poor Bilbo had no idea what he was up against, or the danger that awaited him. If he had, he probably would’ve sat down in his armchair and stayed home with his books.
What if, as we traveled along the road of life, we had the ability to go anywhere, at any point in time? Where would you go? What would you do? The Boston Tea Party in 1773? The St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904? Perhaps you’ve been to the home of a famous author, but what if the character you were reading about came to life in front of you? Imagine going to Prince Edward Island and meeting Anne of Green Gables. I don’t know about you, but I hope she’d consider me a kindred spirit.
Fantasy aside, if you're looking for adventure this summer, there are many interesting places right here in New England; what are your favorites? There’s the traditional itinerary: boardwalks, lighthouses, the Berkshires, & Trustees properties. Want to venture a little further? Visit a Frank Lloyd Wright house like Fallingwater or tour the Zimmerman house at the Currier Museum in New Hampshire
In the mood for something different? How about devoting your summer travels to Olmsted parks? Did you know that 2022 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmsted, who designed the library grounds? In June, a long line of kitschy pink "FLOmingos" will be quite the sight as the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy attempts to break a Guinness World Record.
Ever heard of the Library land project? Over the past four years, they’ve been to over 400 libraries, including ours. Add some cafes to the mix and happily spend the entire summer visiting libraries.
Whatever your destination, be sure you have all the bases covered for a successful journey: a willing companion, some tasty snacks and plenty of entertainment.
Alternatively, if you prefer to stay closer to home, you can live vicariously; check out the items in our catalog and spend your summer outdoors, sitting under a shady tree, reading a good book.
Wishing you all a fantastic Summer,
Kimberly
Photos credits/locations: Heritage Museum and Gardens, Sandwich MA; Gurnet Light, Plymouth MA; Duxbury Beach, Duxbury MA; Painting displayed in the children’s room at the Ames Free Library by local artist Ines Smrz.