I is for Ipswich
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Ipswich Public Library
We set off for Ipswich on a spectacular autumn day. Not a cloud in the sky, perfect 70 degrees and foliage on display. While I had traveled through Ipswich, it is a town I was not familiar with. The few hours spent there on this "Library Adventure" has made me wonder why it took me so long to explore this beautiful part of our state.
Once off the highway the scenery and feel of the town conjured up words like "quaint", and "historic". This north shore town almost seemed like a movie set. I found out later that Ipswich has been been the sight of quite a few movies. Most recently, Netflix filmed their series Salem's Lot in Ipswich.
The library sits at the top of small hill. It is surrounded by old homes, a picturesque church, an art sculpture, a monument, green spaces, flowers, and trees. The library itself was built in 1869. It is Greek Revival architecture. The view from the street is impressive and welcoming. My favorite view is from the front with the old, black, very basic "LIBRARY" sign that you walk underneath to reach the front door.
Just inside the door, at the front desk my husband (Carl) and I met two awesome librarians:) I enjoyed listening to their stories and hearing the pride they have in both their library and the town of Ipswich. They told us that Ipswich has the most "period houses" in the United States! They describe a town devoted to their public library, with a budget as generous as possible. A town devoted to their library and its patrons impresses me!
They offer so many programs that serve all ages. There is a "heat technology class" to assist people who are going solar. I would be all over their cook book club! Everyone who attends the meeting brings along a dish they made from their cook book. They offer flower arranging classes! Their author talks are very well attended! Free is such a good price for classes that offer information, a skill, fun, and socialization
People also make use of the libraries computers and printers. As one of the librarians put it, "Not everyone has a printer, quite often they don't work and the ink is expensive!!"
Each library I have visited has a "Library of Things." This is a collection of sometimes useful, sometimes just fun items to be borrowed, just like you borrow a book. Each town's offerings are unique. Among the Ipswich libraries offerings were a sewing machine, wireless Hot Spots, a shredder, and a pickleball set. They also offer "Binge Boxes." You can go home with a plastic container full of movies put together by a theme, actor, event, or holiday. It's like having someone do all the work for you. All you need is a lazy or rainy day and some popcorn.
Before heading downstairs to the children's section we toured the various rooms. There is so much to explore. Endless shelves of books, well organized with comfy seating everywhere. There is a display with the caption "Ipswich - The birthplace of American Independence - 1687." Alongside this there are letters written between teenagers from the World War II time period, living in Ipswich England and Ipswich New England. I am sorry to say that I didn't read any! I can't help wonder what those teenagers would make of texting!
Once reaching the lower level, you view the children's room through a large window that is at a child's height. The children's room is large, colorful and inviting. There are two chairs situated in front of a fish tank. I didn't take many pictures as I was chatting with two friendly and informative librarians that appear to love their jobs! They have seven book clubs that span grades 1st - 5th grades. The children show up in large numbers! Those are lucky kids whose books turn into an adventure with peers.
A community building piece to the programming is when talented local people bring their classes to the children's room. Music, yoga, and dance were mentioned, among other options I didn't write down fast enough. I got a couple of recommendations while chatting with the librarians. Kate DiCamillo is an author who writes FANTASTIC children's books for middle graders. If you have children in your life you have to check out her books! A preschool age book, Little Pea, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal was also brought to my attention and I WILL be using it in one of my preschool classes.
Before leaving the library I took a walk around the second floor balcony, taking time to appreciate the beauty. You will see in the pictures how stunning the windows and light fixtures are along with woodwork and ironwork. The details that make the Ipswich library a comfortable and inspiring place to spend time in are amazing. I don't think you are likely to find such craftsmanship in a newer building.
The grounds of the library, covered in autumn leaves, were also beautiful. We followed a meandering path around the perimeter of the building. There is a book story path where you walk and read the pages that are displayed at numbered reading stations.
One of the librarians recommended The Choate Bridge Pub for lunch. It was just a few steps down the hill. True to it's name it sat right next to the historic Choate bridge, which is the oldest bridge in Massachusetts, built in 1764. The pub was casual, had friendly staff and it was a cash only establishment. As luck would have it, I had cash in my wallet:)
While lunch was good, once we started exploring the surrounding area I wish we had taken it to go. We stopped at several spots with jaw dropping scenery that would have been perfect picnic spots!! Ipswich is a beautiful town that we have to return to. There is a lot of nature to be explored.
Distance traveled: 168 miles
Next up: "J"
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