Center Moriches Free Public Library approved plans to build an outdoor children’s play area and community garden at no cost to the taxpayer.
The library is currently waiting for production and delivery of the pergola. Once completed, the fencing, turf, and additional play equipment will be installed.
As of Oct. 9, the entrance from the parking lot opened, though it is still fenced on either side. Also, pavers were installed in the community garden.
In earlier September, new flush, concrete sidewalks went in and new bollards were installed to protect the building. Additionally, curbs were installed.
Construction officially began in September. Due to the sitework, the rear entrance to the library from the parking lot was temporarily closed.
In 2024, with the support of assemblyman Fred Thiele (now retired), the library successfully applied for and was awarded a $125,000 CREST Grant (Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology).
The funds, according to library director Marcie Litjens, will be used to establish the Community Garden and an Outdoor Children’s Area.
The Community Garden, which will consist of raised beds that are accessible to all abilities, will build upon the library’s successful Seed Library that has run for the last eight years.
This project, according to Litjens, also fits into the Sustainability Libraries Initiative, of which they have been continually working towards their certification.
Also, don’t miss the jewelry sale
The Friends of the Center Moriches Library will be hosting a different kind of fundraiser than their usual book sales this month—a jewelry bling sale!
The idea for selling jewelry, according to Friends of the Center Moriches Library president Eleanor Schultheis, came to their attention when networking with other Friends’ groups. Items, to make the sale possible, she said, have been generously donated by the community.
The group stopped collecting from patrons, families, and friends last month, in an effort to price and organize before the sale.
“We have costume jewelry, necklaces, bracelets, rings, pins, earrings, and holiday jewelry,” Schultheis said of the collection up for sale. “We have beautiful sets, sterling silver, and some fancy jewelry, along with some accessories.”
Prices will range from $3 to $5, but there will also be tables of specially priced pieces and sets.
All the proceeds from the event will go into the Friends’ general fund to help the library purchase items they request.
“It could be something specific [for] money toward a large purchase,” she said, noting it could be equipment, furniture, or help for programming.
TOY DRIVE AND HAT/MITTEN/SCARF COLLECTION
Center Moriches Library is once again hosting their annual toy drive. Bring joy this season by donating a new, unwrapped toy to our toy drive and help brighten the holidays for children in our community. Every gift, big or small, helps to make a difference. The donation box will be located in the entrance hallway beginning Friday, Nov. 14 until Friday, Dec. 19. Donated toys will be distributed to the 7th precinct, Toys for Tots, and Brookhaven INTERFACE.
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