The Wayne County Public Library unveiled a new outdoor reading garden in honor of Mildred and Wayne Welty.
The garden was made possible by a donation from their daughter, Francine Welty, to the library’s permanent fund at the Wayne County Community Foundation, according to an announcement. The dedication ceremony took place June 20, attended by family, friends, library staff and patrons.
During the event Francine Welty spoke about the transformative power of books.
“A good book doesn’t just inform, it transforms. It can shape the way we see ourselves, others, and the world,” Welty said. “Some books sneak into our thoughts and quietly shift our values, hopes, and fears. A single passage can echo in our minds for a lifetime.”
The garden also holds a personal touch, with daffodil bulbs from Mildred Welty’s own garden planted in the space. These flowers, which symbolize hope and new beginnings, will bloom each spring.
Located just west of the lLibrary building, the garden was once an underutilized lawn. It now aims to foster literacy, creativity and community connection.
“We are incredibly grateful to Francine for her generosity and vision in making this space possible,” said Jennifer Shatzer, library director. “The Reading Garden reflects not only the Welty family’s love of learning, but also their deep connection to farming, gardening and the beauty of the natural world.”
More than just a reading space
The garden features a small stage and patio area, ideal for outdoor story times, performances and interactive, hands-on programs. The popular Bibliobop program, for example, invites children to dance, play with shaker eggs and scarves, and enjoy the excitement of a bubble machine.
Two raised garden beds have also been installed, providing opportunities for children to explore gardening and learn about nature through interactive library programs.
Looking ahead, the library is considering plans to introduce outdoor music performances and is exploring options to open the garden to patrons during designated hours. Visitors may one day be able to check out a book, grab a drink from the Joyful Café and relax in the garden, according to the announcement.
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This article originally appeared on The Daily Record:
Wayne County Public Library transforms lawn into garden for reading, play and learning
