Released by the Cherry Hill Public Library
The Cherry Hill Public Library will dedicate Friendship Grove on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 3 p.m. behind the Library building, 1100 Kings Highway North, Cherry Hill.
Rain location will be on the Library’s Main Level, in the fireplace area, which has windows overlooking the Grove. Light refreshments will be served following a brief program with Mayor Chuck Cahn, Library representatives and donors.
This event was originally scheduled for Nov. 1, but was postponed due to Hurricane Sandy.
Friendship Grove is a project years in the making and the Cherry Hill Public Library is pleased to unveil this beautiful outdoor extension of the Library. Friendship Grove is a place where visitors and members of the community can “Relax, Reflect, and Restore.”
The Library invites people of all ages to sit, read, or lounge on the lawn and enjoy the outdoors in a serene setting.
Friendship Grove consists of 11 benches spaced between 21 Kwanza cherry trees surrounding a peaceful path. Just beyond the path will be a field of wildflowers, enhancing the beauty and tranquility of the space.
“For years, we have wanted to see the land behind the Library transformed into a peaceful, passive area where Library visitors can read and relax,” said Diane Koury Alessi, President of the Library Board of Trustees. “Through the generosity of the Friends of the Library, a landscaping plan that was designed (pro-bono) by Wallace Landscape Associates, and the hard work of the Library’s staff, the Township’s Engineering and Public Works Departments — all working together — this dream has finally become a reality.”
The Friends of the Library pre-funded the effort. The Friends contributed money so the path, benches and trees could be installed as part of the first phase of this project. Members of the community will have the opportunity to purchase the benches, trees and bricks. A portion of those donations will go back to the Friends and other funds will be set aside to maintain the space for years to come.
“Friendship Grove would not have happened without the initial contribution from the Friends of the Library,” stated Manuel Paredes. “It’s important for the public to know that the Grove is completed funded through fundraising efforts and donations.”
The Friendship Grove dedication event is free and open to the public.
