The Milton Public Library is excited to announce that they have received a $5,000 grant from the Green Bay Packers Foundation for Story Gardens, an open air branch of the library that will promote literacy and life-long learning through its literature-based themes and outdoor library programs. Specifically, this grant will go towards the purchase of two sets of concrete chess tables and chess and checkers game pieces, with the remaining funds going towards the eventual installation of shade sails.
The Green Bay Packers Foundation supports charities and organizations that seek to perpetuate a community environment that promotes families and the competitive value of athletics; contributes to player and fan welfare; ensures the safety and education of children; and/or prevents cruelty to animals. This year’s specific focus was on arts and culture, athletics, and education.
The Story Gardens chess tables will provide a unique and interactive activity for all ages. Just like with reading, playing chess has multiple benefits, such as it improves memory, increases intelligence, deepens focus, elevates creativity, boosts planning skills, increases self-awareness, and protects against dementia.
The chess tables are expected to be installed in early Spring of 2022. The library will have the chess and checker sets available for checkout, but community members are also welcomed to use their own. Staff is further excited to incorporate the chess tables into library programming for all ages.
Library Director, Ashlee Kunkel, and City of Milton Administrative Services Director, Inga Cushman, attended a grant recipient luncheon at Lambeau Field in Green Bay to accept the grant on behalf of the library and the Parks & Recreation Commission Story Gardens Subcommittee.
More information about Story Gardens, including sponsorship and donation opportunities, can be found at the library’s website at www.miltonpubliclibrary.org, or you may also contact Library Director Ashlee Kunkel at kunkel.ashlee@als.lib.wi.us or 608-868-7462.