Little Free Libraries have been popping up all around Tri-Town – everywhere, that is, except for in Rochester. Now, however, Rochester residents are free to enjoy the tiny thrill of the Little Free Library at its new home at Rochester Memorial School, courtesy of the Rochester Cub Scouts Pack 30.
Jeff Jerome, Cub Scoutmaster for Pack 30, said every year the scouts implement a community project of some sort. Jerome told The Wanderer that last year the scouts installed a duck house behind Hartley Pond in coordination with the MassWildlife.
“This year, after doing some research, I found there were no Free Little [Libraries] in Rochester, only in Mattapoisett and Marion,” said Jerome. “So I talked with the principal at RMS [and asked] if it was okay to install it there.”
The little library was constructed out of red cedar and mahogany so it would last for many years, Jerome said. “And all the boys in the den traced their hands on the side so they will remember what they did for community,” he added, pointing to the handprints and names burned into the side of the little library with a wood burner. All the scouts — Cash Jerome, Harvey and Eli Mecham, Nick and Jake Dufort, Owen Murray, Patrick O’Leary, Tim Mentzer, and Elijah Benson – are all represented.
RMS Principal Derek Medeiros said during a June 18 follow-up that he was quite impressed.
“They even put a solar panel in the back with a little LED light inside so it can light up at night,” Medeiros said.
The Little Free Library, as per the requirements to register with the non-profit organization, is fitted with a GPS unit, Medeiros said, so anyone who visits the area will be able to locate it at 16 Pine Street.
Medeiros described the little library as an attractive and unique “birdhouse” of sorts, saying, “It’s pretty nice!”
Medeiros noted that, when the little library first went in, there were a few books inside that would come and go. Now, Medeiros said, that has changed.
“The other day it was so full I actually had to adjust the books because the door wouldn’t close right!” said Medeiros.
Medeiros urged the community to enjoy the new Little Free Library located at his school, especially since its popularity is steadily increasing.
“It’s a great addition to the school and the community,” said Medeiros.
By Jean Perry
