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Merrimack council approves Boy Scout plan to install three Little Free lending libraries in town parks
Summary
Life Scout Ryan Marone of Troop 424 received council approval to build and install three Little Free Lending Libraries in Watson, Veterans and Abbey Griffin parks; the project is estimated to cost $436 and will be maintained by the scout and United Way.
Life Scout Ryan Marone presented his Eagle Scout project on April 24 and the Town Council voted 6-0 to approve the installation of three Little Free lending libraries in town parks.
"My Eagle project is to construct 3 little lending libraries in Watson Park, Veterans Park, and Abbey Griffin Park," Ryan said. He described locations he recommends—near the Watson Park entry sign, two possible spots at Veterans Park (one across from a baseball field near bathrooms or near an electrical pole at an entry), and near the walkway by Town Hall at Abbey Griffin Park.
Ryan provided drawings and a materials list and said power tools would be used only by scouts age 14 and older and by adults, in accordance with Boy Scout safety guidelines. He presented a project budget of $436, which he told the council included a contingency and food and water for volunteers.
Installation details presented included setting each library post in a 2-foot hole, supporting posts with concrete (forming tube) and allowing concrete to set 24 hours before covering. Ryan said he had already received approvals from his troop committee and Parks and Recreation and that, if the council approved, he would proceed to the Eagle board. He said he and the United Way would maintain the boxes with periodic checks — "I was thinking every couple months or so, like, every 2 months," he said.
Councilors and staff offered practical advice: a councilor suggested consulting the town library director for stocking and maintenance advice; a DPW representative warned that excavation at Watson Park should not exceed 2 feet and recommended working with DPW and calling DigSafe before digging near utilities. Councilors also suggested optimal placement at Veterans Park away from restrooms and closer to an electrical pole.
Action: The council approved a motion by Councilor Nancy Harrington, seconded by Councilor Jennifer Paul, to accept Ryan Marone's proposal; the vote was 6-0 in favor.
Ending: Ryan said he would begin fundraising (three bake sales) and hold three workdays if approvals are finalized; he will return to the Eagle board once the council approval is recorded.
