New 'Outdoor Learning Center' Unveiled At Mendham Borough Library

MENDHAM BOROUGH, NJ — A new Outdoor Learning Center at the Mendham Borough Library provides more space for both kids and adults to engage and expand their minds, the library said.

The Borough Library, at 10 Hilltop Road, recently unveiled the new outdoor patio, which has patio space for library programming, as well as tables and chairs for people to read, study, or otherwise hang out.

Library Director Trish Hall said that the idea for an outdoor library space took root during the COVID-19 pandemic, as staff and other community members were thinking of how to provide more room for people to gather.

"Our library's very, very small," she explained. "We couldn't have people in the building for a long time."

Thus came the idea to transform part of the library lawn into a new place for people to come together, she said.

"People will just come and sit down and have their lunch or have ice cream," Hall told Patch. "We have two tables and eight chairs for people to hang out outside, and then we have the program space."

The library had its first toddler sing-a-long session outside this week in the new area, a regular program which happens Mondays at 10:30 a.m.

There is also an outdoor event on Wednesday, May 29 where kids can go on a nature scavenger hunt to make "suncatcher sensory bags."

Hall also mentioned an outdoor "Paint and Sip" event planned for adults, and a wildlife program involving predators such as lizards and snakes.

"We plan on using the outside space as much as we can and having as many programs as we can, weather permitting," said Hall.

Funding for the Outdoor Learning Center came from the Library's endowment and from two generous donors, Hall said.

The Library had a grand opening for their new space on Thursday, May 9 with music and refreshments.

Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn of Chester (R-NJ-25) also delivered an official proclamation commemorating the unveiling.

"We're very excited about it, and we're delighted to welcome the community to come use the space," Hall said.

For more information on library programming, visit the Mendham Borough Library website or Facebook page.