About two years ago, the eight members of Cadette Girl Scout Troop 70069, which meets at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 301 Saint Thomas Road, Lancaster, had an idea. To receive their Silver Award, the highest award a Cadette can earn, they would hold a prom for senior citizens. "It was pre COVID-19, and they were all excited about it," recalled Jodi Stapler, who has led the group of seventh- and eighth-grade girls since they started as Daisies in first grade.

When the troop members were able to seriously consider the project again in the summer of 2021, they decided they should focus on a safer contribution to the community. Since all the troop members enjoy reading, they thought a little library might be a nice addition to the area. Stapler reported that they considered Overlook Park and a spot near the Neffsville Elementary School. Working with Matt Stopa of the Manheim Township Recreation and Park Planning Department, the decision was made to put the library in Manheim Township Community Park, located at 309 Petersburg Road, Lancaster, between Neffsville and East Petersburg, near the pavilions where the troop has been meeting.

Stapler noted that the Free Little Library website suggests a variety of plans. "The girls liked the roof with the little shingles," said Stapler, who added that originally the plan was to build just one library. "As we were making them, the girls thought it would be cool if there was a smaller one for little kids to pick out books," Stapler recalled. "We said, 'Why not? We have the supplies. Let's do it.'" The taller library is about five feet high, and the smaller one is about three feet so children can reach into it easily.

The girls collected books to stock the little libraries, which are available to the public. Those who use the library are encouraged to borrow, return, and contribute books on a few-at-a-time basis.

As with other Girl Scout awards, there is a list of requirements that must be completed for the girls to earn the Silver Award. "It's all about community activities and becoming a leader," explained Stapler. "It's coming up with ideas, planning, (and completing a project)." Stapler reported that the troop members have met the criteria and that she hopes to hold a ceremony where the girls will receive their awards in the park in the spring. Members of Cadette Troop 70069 who will receive their Silver Award are Kenley Stapler, Juliann Vedock, Makayla Beck, Maya Hartz, Sidney Gumiran, Emma Drolet, Victoria Pongonis, and Violet Westphal. Ann Vedock leads the girls with Stapler.