The front entrance to the Perry Public Library now features two park benches, the gifts of donors, occupying the shady nooks on each side of the front doors.
“We usually put all our donations toward books,” said Perry Public Library Director Mary Murphy, “but one of our annual donors suggested a bench, and we had the perfect spot for one.”
The family of Robert and Ada Phillips bought the sleek, black, powder coated bench sitting on the west side of the library’s vestibule.
When a second donor — the family of Deloris Blanchard — approached Murphy shortly afterward with a donation, she suggested placing a second bench in order to balance the first.
“Deloris was one of our wonderful patrons,” Murphy said, “and this seems like a fitting way to honor someone we all enjoyed so much.”
She said the library has already received compliments on the comfort and convenience of the new benches.
The Perry Public Works Department poured the concrete pads for the benches, and Murphy said she is grateful for the team effort that brought about the improvements.
The area was previously used as bedding for hastas, which were maintained for many years by volunteers, including Ray Harden of Perry. The library opened in 1994.
