A Free Library and a Great Block Party
The 3100-3200 North Cramer Street blocks of neighbors recently had their 8th Annual Block Party with the activity of designing and creating a free library along with fun, scrumptious food and great conversations for all. The neighbors, their kids, UWM students, friends and relatives gathered on a warm Saturday afternoon and evening to meet new neighbors and renew friendship … but they accomplished something more. The idea of a free library that was started at last year’s gathering with the collection of books became a reality this year with the active participation of neighbors building the library under the guidance of Jim Salinsky, our neighborhood master craftsman. Design ideas were generated; mahogany wood, Plexiglas and a door handle were donated to create the main door; shingles were cut to size, glued and nailed to the roof; a dremel tool was used to remove extended nail tips; wood was stained; a post was cemented into the ground; and the addition of miniature flower boxes with flowers and a bird completed the free library. Of course, pictures of the whole process were captured (see gallery set 1 and gallery set 2). The neighbors had a great time that evening as they worked together past dusk to accomplish the majority of the building. They left with a sense of accomplishment as well as having had a fun evening! The Free Library is located at 3257 North Cramer Street. Resource information to make your own free library can be found at: www.littlefreelibrary.org. There are also free libraries located at the UWM Daycare Center and on the UWM campus on Kenwood Blvd.
Organizing a block party can be a great way to get to know your neighbors, make the area safer and sometimes even do interesting things. Start by talking about the possibilities of getting together with your neighbors, complete the City of Milwaukee block party permit at: city.milwaukee.gov/mpw/BlockParties.htm and then just have a fun time.