A project that began before the onset of the pandemic in early 2020, the Foy Family Children’s Library is now open at the American Independence Museum. Located in the museum’s Folsom Tavern (c. 1775), the library features a reading nook with comfortable seating, curated books that focus on 18th century life, dress-up area with Revolutionary-era clothing, play kitchen, games, and more.
“This is a child-friendly space where everything is touchable,” said the museum’s Program Manager Sarah Jaworski, who selected the books with Melissa Foy, a retired school media specialist.
Melissa and husband Jeff have long been supporters of the museum. Their financial gift made the library possible, an opportunity that “excites” them both.
“We want to see kids get in there and use it,” said Jeff, who has also supported the museum for years as co-owner of Foy Insurance. “I hope the space inspires kids to learn about history and make that part of their studies and the thing they are interested in at school.”
According to Jaworski, the newly transformed space provides a unique opportunity for kids and families.
“It’s a space where kids can be kids and be free to explore — this is a welcoming space where kids can learn through play,” she said. “The old adage, ‘Look, don’t touch,’ won’t apply here.”
The Foy Family Children’s Library is also part of the museum’s larger initiative to foster inclusion and diversity.
“We are talking with Twenty-One Senses, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing inclusion for children with invisible disabilities, to explore different uses of this space,” said Jaworski. “We want kids with sensory challenges to feel welcome here, so this is an important initiative that addresses real community needs.”
Interim Executive Director Jennifer Carr agrees and added, “We are committed to developing our entire museum campus into an open, inviting, inclusive place…and it starts with the kids.”
To learn more about the museum, visit independencemuseum.org.
About the American Independence Museum
Located in Exeter, NH, the American Independence Museum features a rare collection of historic artifacts that shed light on the Revolutionary War. Examples of popular items in our exhibits include a dragoon pistol, brown bess musket, and 18th century powder horn. Many of our programs offer insight into civic duties, civic engagement and civic responsibility, while we also feature a variety of things to do in NH, such as camps for kids, festivals, summer festival, reenactments, and homeschool programs. Perfect for a day trip or weekend trips, we believe in inclusivity and inclusive history and the spirit behind the phrase, ‘we the people’.
