Smithfield Girl Scout Build Little Library At Church For Gold Award

SMITHFIELD, RI — A girl scout from Smithfield has earned the Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouting, after she created a free little library for her local church.

Aoife Molly Blais received the award after completing her project "Read, Share, and Read Some More!"

Blais built and maintained a little free library for her church so that parish and community members would have a place to share inspirational books. She also led weekly children's liturgies, during which she read to children, prepared and guided them in craft activities, and talked with children about how to be kind.

In addition to giving books a second life and keeping them out of the landfill, this project helped Blais said the project helped her build community within the church and town, as well as help children feel more part of the church and the religious services.

"My favorite aspect of being a girl scout is being part of a world-wide community of girl scouts and girl guides," Blais said. "I've enjoyed learning new things, working on badges, helping others, and giving back through service projects."

Have a news tip? Email jimmy.bentley@patch.com.