Library garden plan unveiled at meeting

The Friends of the Chestnut Hill Library discussed plans for Phase II of the garden project at their annual meeting on June 1. Pictured from left to right: Elizabeth Rogers, Mary Sue Welsh, and Joe Ascenzi of Laurel Hill Gardens.

by MEREDITH SONDERSKOV

“Information, information, information; that’s what our library patrons are looking for.” So spoke Elizabeth Bartle, outgoing president, at the annual meeting of the Friends of the Chestnut Hill Library on June 1 in the library’s community room.

Bartle pointed out that the participation and support of the Friends is vitally important in providing the funds to continue offering a variety of programs for children and adults that would otherwise have to be scaled back as a result of recent budget cuts. Not only does the library offer access to printed materials but also to the Internet and its tremendous sources of information, she said.

The Chestnut Hill Branch is one of the busiest in the system, according to Margaret Brunton, head librarian.

After the unanimous election of new officers, Bartle introduced Joe Ascenzi of Laurel Hill Gardens, who used detailed graphics in his presentation of Phase II of the library garden restoration. Phase I involved a “re-do” of the front garden and was completed last fall, providing an inviting entrance to the Germantown Avenue doorway.

The first part of Phase II involved removal of overgrown shrubs and dying trees, and the goal now is to provide private yet secure space for patrons to enjoy the outdoors, Ascenzi said. A new winding path now leads from the rear parking lot to the ramp on the west side of the building. The path is wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers and will eventually lead to a pergola on the east side of the building, where children’s story hours may be held.

The group moved outside to have a better idea of where new trees and bushes will be planted. There was enthusiastic response to Ascenzi’s projected planting plan, which combines tall shade trees with blooming undergrowth and will provide changing colors and fragrance throughout the growing season. Consideration has also been given to plants that require low maintenance. A new wood fence between the library and The Top of the Hill retail complex is planned, as well as path lighting and arch lighting in the trees.

Friends’ treasurer Bruce C. Flint pointed out that although some pledges have been received toward the new plantings and benches, more donations are being earnestly solicited. Bartle thanked the Chestnut Hill Garden District for its help and emphasized that “park-like public spaces are an important part of Chestnut Hill and the library’s garden is a focal point.”

New officers were also elected at the meeting. The group’s co-presidents are Elizabeth Rogers and Mary Sue Welsh; the treasurer is Bruce C. Flint; Marilyn Vencius was elected secretary.