Green Free Library: My Old Friend

This facebook picture of my hometown library this morning brought such a warm nostalgic feeling to my soul. As a young teenager, I spent many after-school hours here in complete quiet because the librarians demanded silence. Whispers were acceptable, but any more than a whisper brought steely glares from those in charge. However, that silence comforted me as I breathed in the book “aroma” of the old home. Opened in 1917, the Green Free Library is the original Chester Place (built in 1855) and bequeathed by Mary B. Robinson, the daughter of Chester Robinson.

Many times when I entered the huge doors of this library with the intention of using the World Book Encyclopedia for homework research, I instead gravitated to books such as Spin and Marty, Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, and Encyclopedia Brown. Needless to say, I seldom completed homework here before my father came to pick me up for the ride home.

This summer while visiting my hometown, I entered this peaceful icon and once again felt as if I had come to visit an old friend. If you have a chance to visit this unique town of Wellsboro, PA, don’t miss meeting my special friend, The Green Free Library.

What childhood place holds a warm and comforting feel for you? Write about it. This could be the beginning of your written story for your generations to come. (Picture used with permission of Mike Cooney, Wellsboro, PA)