By: Jetty Zarfos

Fruitville’s wonderful garden is ever growing and ever-changing. That’s what a garden does.

Our Reading Garden, started in 2002, continues to be a source of joy and education for readers and gardeners.

A reader can enjoy sitting on a bench or Adirondack chair while listening to the sound of water flowing in the fountain and seeing the butterflies flutter.

Kids enjoy the Storybook Cottage and running around the brick path. There are little chairs so children can relax while hearing a story read to them. Because of the variety of natives plants, herbs, fruit and flowering trees and succulents, there are a lot of butterflies. We are National Butterfly Garden certified.

The garden is maintained by Master Gardeners. Our focus is to maintain and enhance the garden, while providing education to visitors. Mailboxes contain the latest gardening information from the University of Florida.

The 4th Saturday of every month Master Gardeners provide information to home owners at the monthly ‘Help Desk’.

[box style=”0″]

Pave the Path in the Reading Garden

Engrave a loved one’s name on a brick to commemorate  a lasting tribute, mark a special occasion (birthday, anniversary, graduation,  birth, memorial) or a short quote. It’s truly a gift that gives back.

By purchasing an engraved  brick, you will be supporting the Fruitville Library and  the community with the ability to purchase books and media for the library, provide special programs for adults and children, but most of all, beautify  the only Reading Garden in the Sarasota  County Library system.

Stop by the library bookstore and complete the order form or click here and fill out the form online.  If you have any questions, please call 861-2500. [/box]