HCPL Tour Series #3: Twin Hickory

Our next library profile highlights one of our biggest and busiest libraries —Twin Hickory. Twin Hickory was born in July 2007 when the old Innsbrook Library near Broad Street closed its doors for good. Read on to learn more about the current Twin Hickory location and how its grown over the years!

One goal for the new building was to offer a larger and more child and teen-friendly library. The new location was built with spacious children’s and teen sections and offers several Storytime options. At the library’s grand opening there was face painting, touch pools with hermit crabs, and even an exciting appearance by none other than Clifford himself!

A current user of the Children’s section at Twin Hickory says that her child “loves having all of that space to play around!” Both the parent and child enjoy working on puzzles together, or playing with the latest selection of toys that rotate to different library locations. Another customer says that the Children’s area is a “great place for family time.”

Twin Hickory was also built for adults to enjoy. The top floor of the library houses all of the adult books and is a lovely place to study and meet. There is a quiet room, four study rooms, and tons of books and computers for your enjoyment. The main room’s large windows provide a lovely view out over the trees.

A customer commented that he enjoys Twin Hickory “because I can sit at a computer upstairs, make lists, and get my day organized. Then I can take a walk in the park or go shopping down the street! It’s perfect!”

One unique feature at Twin Hickory is its birding station. Take a walk over to the southeast facing windows in the Children’s section and you will see a large bird feeder standing outside. Just inside there is a bird identification poster and a list where customers and staff can record any fabulous avian visitors that appear near the window.

Pam Macaulay, one of our information staff, maintains this fun feature. Pam grew up tent camping and learning about nature with her father. She graduated college with a degree in Recreation and Outdoor Education, and worked as a Naturalist Educator for University of Rhode Island. I asked her for advice for those who would like to begin birding. She writes:

"Simply STOP, LOOK, LISTEN.  REPEAT. Look sky high. STOP, LOOK, LISTEN. Look tree high. STOP, LOOK, LISTEN. Look eye high.  STOP, LOOK, LISTEN. Look low...on the ground and under shrubs, and at the edges. Notice what's around you with all of your senses!  The REWARDS are GREAT! You don't need fancy equipment, or a specific location. The birds are all around us, so stop, look and listen."

What’s her favorite local bird? It was hard for her to choose but she decided on the Cedar Waxwing because they are so elusive, quiet, and SO BEAUTIFUL!”

Whether it’s children’s activities, birding, study spaces, or just plain books, Twin Hickory Library provides something for everyone. Come and hang out with us!