Library Love

I love my local library. Like, I LOVE it. The collection is fantastic, the staff is brilliant, and the programming is top notch. My whole family has benefitted so much over the years from library programs. In addition to checking out countless books and audiobooks, we’ve participated in ‘1,000 Books Before Kindergarten’, the Puzzle Exchange (happening now!), book sales, summer reading programs and raffles, and more. OPL even supported Chair Riot in their series, Meet Your Expert Neighbor (thanks again!!!).

But the members of my family who have gotten the most from the library are definitely our kids. Caitlin Schaffer, the youth services librarian, is AMAZING. In addition to directing seemingly endless youth groups and activities, she seems to know every kid by name, and is always ready with a book recommendation. Caitlin *always* exudes positivity (HOW!?) and brings energy to each and every story time. On a personal note, when I was finding my way as a new parent, those story times were like life preservers for me (and I know I’m not the only one <3).

So when Caitlin and library director Betsy Bleck asked me to reupholster the well loved benches in the kid’s play area - benches I have spent countless combined hours sitting on - I jumped at the chance. I love to give back, and considering just how much the library has given me over the years, I figured it was the least I could do!

Here’s what the benches looked like before:

Betsy and Caitlin wanted a fabric that could sustain a lot of wear and tear, so I dropped off several sample books from Charlotte Fabrics and they settled on a vibrant, printed vinyl (V277 Sunset, if you’re interested!).

And then, I got to work:

When I was removing the seats, I noticed that the bolts and washers were mismatched and a few were looking a little worse for wear. I went ahead and replaced all the hardware when I reinstalled, because details matter.

Since I was replaced fabric with vinyl, I drilled a few holes in the bottom of each seat to allow for air to pass through. Here is the final product:

Thank you to Betsy, Caitlin, and the rest of the amazing staff at OPL for the opportunity to give back a little of the love I’ve gotten from you over the years. And to all my fellow parents at the library, balancing a stack of board books and wondering where you set down your coffee: have a seat, just for a minute. You deserve it.