Need to learn all things about landscaping, gardening, houseplants, etc.? Theresa Baga, the Senior Library Assistant at the Salem Public Library does not have enough time in her day to tell you what she knows. Aside from checking out the vast array of gardening books Baga has curated for the library, now you can step into the Children’s Garden and learn all about the pollinators essential in making our gardens grow and what we can do in our own backyards to help them.
Additions to the Children’s Garden include:
- A Solitary Bee and Lacewing House as a “nursery” and hibernation house for mason bees, leaf cutter bees and lacewings.
- Two Butterfly Houses, 2 Banana Holders, and 3 Butterfly Puddlers. The butterfly houses are hibernation houses to give insects a place to overwinter and the banana holders hold overripe fruit as a treat for butterflies. The puddlers provide salts and minerals from rainwater that butterflies need.
The Story Walk storyboards in the Children’s Garden now contain photos and information for all ages about bees, butterflies and hummingbirds and each pollinator feature added. The changes added to the garden provide information on who the pollinators are, why they are important, and how we can help them whether we have a small flower bed or a large meadow. Also included are ideas for activities children can do at home like building a Bee Nest Bundle and lists and pictures of plants needed to make your own pollinator garden.
A Shade Sail visible from Main Street was added to provide shade for patrons during warm, sunny days. New outdoor furniture gives kids places to play or participate in outdoor programs.
The additional funding for these extra projects are provided by the Friends of the Salem Library (FOSL). Contribute to additional funding for the library by coming to the FOSL Booksale on September 9-11 or by becoming a member.
Friday, September 9th: Public sale 1 to 8 p.m.
Saturday, September 10th, Olde Salem Day 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday, September 11th, 1:30-4 p.m., $6 per bag