I love this library! I have used the MHLS catalog and Saugerties Library resources so much on my publishing journey. I take out stacks of picture books to improve my craft. I take out novels and nonfiction for fun. I wander the stacks sometimes for art and story inspiration.
I have gone to presentations, programming, and art shows at the library. I use Libby, Hoopla, and Kanopy for ebooks, audiobooks, and movies. I stopped by to use the wifi when mine was out. And I have come for the quiet when my neighbor’s house was under construction.
I use it A LOT. A lot, a lot.
So, I kicked off the Mid-Hudson Library Road Trip here, at my local library! MHLS Road Trip is a self-paced adventure through October where you can visit some (or all) of the area’s 70 library locations. Pick up a physical map at the first library, and bring it with you to be stamped at the other libraries you visit!
A little interesting history: the Saugerties Public Library (located at 91 Washington Avenue, Saugerties, NY) was built with a Carnegie grant in 1915.
It was the town’s first purpose-built library and the design included a large entry staircase and street lampposts (hallmark features of Carnegie libraries meant to represent enlightenment through learning.)
In 2011, the historic building underwent a major renovation and expansion adding an 8,000 sq ft three‑story wing to the south facade and a 1,100 sq ft two‑story wing to the east. Voted the New York Library Association’s Project of the Year (2011), the redesign prioritized accessibility (the entrance was moved to ground level and an elevator was added), abundant natural light, dedicated teen, children’s and history rooms, plus modern community tech spaces and meeting rooms as well.
Children’s room downstairs.
The art wall leading to the Children’s Room.
Light-drenched reading and studying nooks.
Books in the History room.
You can research the history of your home and all of Ulster county in this dedicated history room.
And you can still sit and read magazines and actual newspapers by the original Moravian tile fireplace near the circulation desk.
There is a bank of computers, printers, and copy machines.
The Saugerties Library also has a back yard with benches and lovely gardens. (There’s also an EV charging station in the parking lot.)
If you live in Saugerties and don’t have a library card or have never visited, make the time to stop by! You don’t need a library card to participate or to visit. But if you want a library card, bring your ID with your Saugerties address and one piece of official mail delivered by postal service, and the librarians will help you get one!
I will be at Saugerties Library for Family Fun Night on July 30th at 6:30pm doing live drawing and storytelling for all ages!
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