Library 148: Platt Memorial Library (Shoreham)

Thanks for cheering me up, Robin!

Library 148! The Platt Memorial Library in Shoreham was the 148th stop on my quest to read, write, and knit in every public library in Vermont.

• I read: Neither by Airlie Anderson

• I wrote: a grant application

• I knit: a cardigan for my mom

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I visited this library on June 25, 2025.

I sadly forgot to bring Hen Solo (my emotional support chicken) on this trip. For the 148th photo, my wife suggested holding her hand in the shape of my forgotten library companion. Eggcellent idea, Lisa!

The Platt Memorial has quite a few features I enjoy finding in a library: happy plants; beautiful landscaping; an exterior-turned-interior wall; a permanent book sale in the basement; shelves on wheels for in multi-purpose big room; an awesome librarian. Pig sculptures.

It also had something I’ve never seen before: a mini-fridge with free cheese and apples. This is thanks to donations from kind local orchards and creameries. Although the fridge was established for after school kids, it is available to anyone who needs a snack. That is community care, Shoreham. Nice work.

After knitting, I read a delightful book “Neither” that uses a metaphor to tell a story about non-binary gender identities. This book could be used for analyzing and discussing any established binary that makes us feel unduly constrained— with K-4th graders. There *are* ways to talk about gender at all ages. Neither is going into the pile I share with my students along with Red: A Crayon’s Story and Julian is a Mermaid.

I was not listening carefully in this library because I was skimming books from the multiple pride displays, but I listened long enough to hear a patron say this to the librarian on the way out: “Thanks for cheering me up, Robin!”

My last few posts have been quite dark, in reflection of the dark state of the world. One blow after another. Trans rights. Freedom to read. Public education. National parks. Public media. Due process. FEMA. Museums. Libraries. Medicaid. Civil liberties. Truth.

And still, when I leave a library, I feel hopeful.

Thanks for cheering me up, library!

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