New Library Boosts Community Engagement
The Champlin Foundation provided major funding for the new Tiverton Public Library, a beloved institution that both embraces its storied past and strides boldly into the 21st century. The first year exceeded the wildest expectations in number of library users, books checked out, online usage and program participation. By any metric the new Tiverton Library has been the biggest thing to happen to the town in recent memory.
The exterior evokes a traditional New England ambience, while the interior is open and flexible, for daily changes, or total reconfiguration in the future. The building meets the highest levels of energy efficiency.
The impact on the community has been dramatic. People from all walks of life realize personal and career goals, and people of all ages develop a love of reading and learning. The use of most Library resources doubled, while computer use tripled. The programs enjoy robust attendance – Storytimes (baby, toddler, pre-school), Book Groups, Movie Nights, Speaker Presentations, Lego Days, “Drop-In and Play” Saturdays, Teen Anime & Magna Meet-Up, etc.
The Library is a hub for community growth, playing an ongoing role in its cultural, civic, social and economic life. It hosts such groups as the volunteer Town Commissions, school events like the District Art Show and after school creative arts sessions, probate and municipal courts, small businesses, unions, political groups, and employers interviewing job seekers.
The Library Staff, Trustees, Friends and Foundation join the community in thanking Champlin for making our vision a reality.