Bringing Out the Library
Sun Shades
The Friends of the Andorra Library is proud to support our local branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia for its Bringing Out the Library initiative. Bringing Out the Library seeks to utilize the Andorra Library’s large outdoor patio to make an outdoor community space. Fully accessible and open to all, the outdoor patio transformation will create more than a welcoming pathway to simply enter the library, it will produce a public gathering spot with no time restrictions, allowing the library to bring diverse programming out into the neighborhood and inviting our neighbors to make use of the space anyhow and at anytime.
Progress has already begun on this exciting community resource. Brightly colored Adirondack chairs encourage people to stay a while, planters add to the atmosphere, a trash compactor has reduced litter and a bike rack boosts environmentally friendly travel. These positive steps are just the beginning. The next phase of this initiative is to install sun shades. When seeking feedback from the library’s patrons, sun shades were overwhelmingly recommended. With no trees or awnings for cover, sun shades would help make the patio more comfortable, cool and safe in the direct sunlight. And not only would the sun shades benefit the library’s programming, neighborhood meet-ups and individuals stopping by to make use of the free wifi, but the shade would be a welcome respite for those waiting in line when the library serves as a polling place on election day, making civic engagement more accessible. The sun shades would truly be an asset, increasing the comfort of the space, adding to the overall welcoming aesthetic and helping signal that the patio is open and available to all.
Once sun shades are in place, the library is eager to expand outdoor events including yoga and meditation classes, storytimes (including the popular goat story hour), gardening and healthy eating workshops for children, adults and special needs groups, art and science programs and more. The library has a clear vision for future enhancements to the patio, while also actively listening and continually seeking feedback and suggestions from its patrons. From pollinator and native plant gardens to bird feeders that connect with the library’s existing birding programs and youth birding backpacks to permanent outdoor chess tables and even a mural, the space will be an inspiring work-in-progress that will serve and answer the needs of the community.
The Friends of the Andorra Library are actively seeking funding support to help make the sun shades phase of the Bringing Out the Library initiative a reality, allowing us to support our local library and help the vibrant community that surrounds and supports it.