The Giving Garden & Fridge in the Foyer

I often daydream about having a garden. I envision myself strolling through the rows of greenery, carefully tending the plants while the morning sun warms my shoulders. I can almost feel the smooth texture of the tomato, the daydream version of myself tenderly plucked just moments before.

Ninety-nine percent of the time, I am jolted back to reality by a ringing phone, a shutting door or my neighbor starting his truck for work. It is then I realize that my dream of being the ultimate gardener is just that. A dream.

The jolt back to reality makes me realize three things. First, I don’t have the space for a garden. Second, every plant I have ever come in contact with has met an unfortunate fate because I have been blessed (cursed) with a black thumb. Lastly, I don’t really know the first thing about gardening.

Thanks to the generosity of the Blair Garden Club, and the contributions made to the Henny Penny and Georgie Porgie Garden, the gardening dilemmas I face have been solved.

The Roaring Spring Community Library has received a grant to establish a community garden. The Giving Garden will not only provide access to fresh, healthy produce but will also serve as a space for creativity and community empowerment. It will be an opportunity to share and gain knowledge while making our community a better place.

The Giving Garden project has been designed as an outdoor space for all ages to learn and enjoy.

Beginning on June 14, The Community Garden Club will meet each Monday at 10:30 a.m. through Aug. 16. Participants will learn basic gardening skills and learn about environmental sustainability while helping the library staff plant, tend and harvest the garden. Garden novices and masters alike are encouraged to join!

This summer, the Roaring Spring Community Library will also be starting the Fridge in the Foyer program to work in conjunction with The Giving Garden. In addition to the produce from The Giving Garden, community members are invited to share any extra they may have from their home gardens. If you are in need, want to try something new, or have extra to share, everyone is welcome and invited to take part!

If you are looking to take up a new hobby, hone your gardening skills, meet new people and make a difference in your community stop by 320 E. Main St., Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We are also in need of a few weekend waterers.

If you would like more information on The Giving Garden, Fridge in the Foyer or our other community based programs, please contact the library by emailing info@roaringspringlibrary.org, calling (814) 224-2994, or sending a message on Facebook.