The
Friendliest Little Library on the Trail
Many visitors
to Damascus, VA often find themselves at the library, in the middle
of town on Laurel Avenue. Established in 1986, the Damascus Branch
Library is one of four branch libraries in the Washington County system.
Circulation of library materials and traffic in and out of the library
has increased at least 150% since it opened, and the sizes of the
collection and the budget have increased at least 100%.
Last year
the library logged visitors from 42 states and 12 foreign countries.
It is the place for tourist information, and its friendly, capable
staff has earned it the moniker of “The Friendliest Little Library
on the Trail.” Especially during Trail Days, the library is
a hub of activity, with its current 2,028 square-foot-space frequently
crammed with 100-plus people. Fortunately, relief is on the way and
it’s not surprising that the needs and wants of the AT hikers,
Creeper Trail bikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts have been an important
consideration for the planners of a new 6,500 square-foot space.
In addition
to traditional library services, the new building will house a meeting
room and a new area that will serve as a visitor and tourist information
center. An information kiosk inside and outside the building will
provide information about local recreational, historic and business
resources. Other kiosks will offer information on native plants and
the historical significance of the American Chestnut Tree to the region.
The exterior of the building will look similar to Damascus’
original railroad station, and if funding allows, elements of “green”
design will be incorporated into the construction and operation of
the facility.
While construction
funds for the building are in hand, fundraising continues for the
interior space, including furniture, décor and other special
features. Upcoming fundraising projects include a $2,000 gas card
raffle and a cookbook comprised of recipes from community members,
which will also feature pictures and historical information about
Damascus. To purchase a raffle ticket and/or submit a recipe for the
community cookbook, contact the Damascus (276/475-3820) or Main (276/676-6222)
library locations.
Final plans
are being drawn up for the building this summer. Construction should
start by the fall and completion should be some time in the summer
of 2009.
Donations
for the new Damascus Branch Library may be sent to: Washington County
Public Library Foundation—Damascus Project, 205 Oak Hill Street,
Abingdon, VA 24210.
