Third Grade Class Creates the First Little Free Library for the Community

Mrs. Hopkins’s third grade class at G.R. Martin Elementary School recently planned and completed a community service project. Mrs. Hopkins applied for, and received a $250 grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council to build and install a “Little Library” on the school grounds for community members to use. A “Little Library” is intended to be another way for neighborhoods to have access to good books, especially for those who might find it difficult to get to the town library. The ”Martin School Little Library” has books for children and adults. The premise is a “give and take” system. Any book can be taken from the library, but another book should be left in its place. Participants should leave books they have read and no longer need. Books left should be ones that the previous reader would recommend as a good read, and should be in good condition.

The “Martin School Little Library” was completed with the generous help of volunteer John Braganca who headed up the design and construction of the structure. The class took part in painting and assembling parts of it. Mrs. Braganca, a 2nd grade teacher at Martin School also helped Mrs. Hopkins coordinate the construction.
Additionally, donations were greatly appreciated from the following local businesses. B&R Fournier Construction Company of Rehoboth donated shingles for the roof. Evergreen Tree & Landscape of Seekonk donated flowers for decorations. Horseman’s Limited of Rehoboth donated the engraved dedication plate.

The “Martin School Little Library” was dedicated to the memory of Patrick Gregorek. Paddy, who grew up in the neighborhood and attended Martin School, passed away earlier this year. He was in Mrs. Hopkins’s third grade class. Paddy, the Seekonk High School Salutatorian of the Class of 2015 was a dedicated student studying at Boston College. He was an avid reader who loved a good book. Paddy was a kind friend to all he met.

Mrs. Hopkins’s Class welcomes the community to visit the “Martin School Little Library” and enjoy sharing a love of reading with them