Arvilla Diver Memorial Library in Schaghticoke
I saved the best for last! I have reached the 36th library on my tour, I’m a 36er!!! I don’t mind that since I took a year to do it and the Library Expedition initiative starts this September so I don’t get the cool prizes (but they could take pity on me, just sayin’).
The Diver library in Schaghticoke is named after Arvilla E. Diver. It was originally her house, her husband was the town mortician (but the house was not used as a funeral home). It is beautiful and very unique, in that it is designed for the librarian to live on site, above the library. The current director and his wife and baby occupy the upstairs.
“Has anyone ever walked into your apartment?” I asked.
“Yeah, a couple of times, when we forget to lock the door,” he said calmly.
Running the library is a real family affair, as the director’s mom runs story time and the utterly adorable baby ambassador gets passed around the parents. I was glad that this was my last stop, since I was warmly welcomed and given a full tour.
This is Arvilla.
The view from the back window looks out onto a cliff, which hangs over a corner of the Hoosic River.
“Yeah, the library is going over that some day. Erosion.” the Director said.
He is one of the most chill librarians I’ve ever met. He’s a musician, that might explain it. For the summer reading program, he had the kids compose their own song together, using book titles and the library piano. He’s planning on making a CD to share with the group and circulate in the library.
“You’ve got to celebrate your accomplishment with a picture,” he said, and his wife, who had come down with their most adorable baby, agreed. He produced the Diver top hat, plunked it on my head, and had me play the piano for the picture.
So, I did it! All 36 of the Upper Hudson Libraries. Starting September first, you can do it too for prizes and fame, stop in to any of the libraries to get a map and get started.
Jane has visited all 36 locations of the Upper Hudson Library System!!! (see introduction)
Oh wow! This is what I’ve always wanted – to live at a library. I am so envious of that family.
I’ve really enjoyed these posts!
MM