Happy National Library Week!
I have been a bookworm since I was a kid. Due to my deafness, I wasn’t able to hear information so books gave me that access. I learned so much through books about the world, people, cultures and beyond.
One thing that I love about Southeastern Connecticut is that there are so many libraries housed in historical buildings. Where I grew up, I only had one library in a rural town. I’m amazed at how many there are within half hour of Mystic, CT so I’m sharing some of my favorites that I often visit.
WESTERLY LIBRARY & WILCOX PARK — WESTERLY, RI
This is a beautiful library overlooking a park. I always do my annual trip here during spring when everything is blooming in the park. See it for yourself here: Spring Stroll in Wilcox Park.
WHEELER LIBRARY — NORTH STONINGTON, CT
In a former schoolhouse, this library is gorgeous. Especially the upper level. I adore the lion statues out front of the entrance. This is also my favorite spot for their year-round book sale store located in the cellar.
STONINGTON FREE LIBRARY — STONINGTON, CT
The library greets you as you enter the borough. It’s worth the peek inside and see the gorgeous upper level combined with regal columns and amazing floors. When the weather is beautiful, they have an outdoor patio where you can read or work at the table.
MYSTIC NOANK LIBRARY — MYSTIC, CT
One of the most beautiful libraries! Since it was a sea captain who built this, you can see nautical touches throughout the library. I love the exterior details… those green moldings! I also admire the carved oak ceiling! Cat lovers, this will be the one for you - there are two library cats that lives there. I always have to visit with them every time I drop in. The interior detail is just stunning.
BILL MEMORIAL LIBRARY — GROTON, CT
I don’t get to visit this library often but whenever I visit Fort Griswold (right next door), I take a walk inside to admire the interior details. The wood paneled ceilings and the iron cast doors! Despite it being probably the smallest library, it is very cozy.
NEW LONDON PUBLIC LIBRARY — NEW LONDON, CT
Situated in Downtown New London, on the corner of State Street and Huntington Street. I used to drive past this library daily when I worked in the area. The historical library is surrounded by other historical buildings — the oldest courthouse across the street, Garde Art Centers and more.
PHOEBE GRIFFIN LIBRARY — OLD LYME, CT
I enjoy my visit there as it is perched on Main Street in Old Lyme, where there are nearby businesses to check out. The library also has a book sale cellar full of amazing selections, but it is only opened on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
There are more libraries in the area that I didn’t include. I always make sure to visit libraries on my day trips or travels. It’s amazing to see the variety of details and structures. I am forever grateful that libraries exist in today’s world!