Summer Dreamin’: How a Tiny NH Lakeside Library Won Big with an AARP Community Challenge Grant

In the heart of Center Harbor, NH—a town of just 1,000 year-round residents nestled beside Lake Winnipesaukee—something magical happened this summer. The James E. Nichols Memorial Library, a cozy cornerstone of the community, turned a dream into reality thanks to a 2025 AARP Community Challenge Grant.

🧩 What Is the AARP Community Challenge Grant?
In simple terms, it’s a “quick-action” grant from AARP that helps local governments and nonprofits make fast, meaningful improvements to their communities—especially for people age 50-plus. Projects range from benches and gardens to digital literacy and transportation.

🌱 It All Started with a Daydream
Library Director Linda Verge had a vision. After attending an AARP webinar in January, she was inspired by stories of other towns transforming outdoor spaces. “I started daydreaming about what we could do here in Center Harbor,” Linda said. “We have this beautiful outdoor space, and I kept thinking—how can we make it more inviting, especially for our older residents?”

With 63% of Center Harbor’s population age 50-plus, Linda knew any improvements would have a big impact.

🌿 Seeds of Change
A second webinar in February about creating library greenscapes—planted the seeds for a plan. Linda teamed up with Selectman Harry Viens to apply for the AARP grant, envisioning:

• Four picnic tables, including two ADA-compliant ones.
• Four Adirondack chairs for relaxing and reading.
• Security cameras to protect the new furniture, coordinated with Police Chief Mark Chase.

🎉 A Big Win for a Small Town
In May, the news arrived: Nichols Library was one of New Hampshire’s 2025 Community Challenge Grant recipients! Linda wasted no time ordering the furniture and rallying volunteers.

One grant condition? Half the volunteers had to be age 50-plus. So, on a hot August morning, ten older adults showed up, tools in hand, ready to build something beautiful.

🪑 A Gift That Keeps on Giving
The Adirondack chairs found a home in Dr. Morrill Memorial

Park, adjacent to the library, and also undergoing a quiet transformation. The picnic tables were placed on the library’s side lawn, overlooking the lake.

“One day, I heard laughter outside my office. I looked out and saw four older women chatting and eating lunch under the umbrellas,” said Linda of this wonderful moment. “I was filled with joy!”

Now, the tables are a daily gathering spot for people of all ages. Residents, seasonal visitors, and town leaders alike are embracing the space. One patron even asked to donate flowers, adding a splash of color and pride.

“It’s gone beyond its original mission,” Linda said. “The grant helped us expand adjoining areas and increased town pride.”

Another day, a young family enjoyed lunch outside. Linda’s office overlooks the tables and Lake Winnipesaukee, and she smiled watching them.

“It’s a gift that keeps on giving,” she said. “We’re looking forward to ADA curbing coming soon, so the tables are more accessible.”

From a spark of inspiration to a full-blown community transformation, the Nichols Library story is proof that even small towns can dream big—and win.

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For more about AARP’s Community Challenge Grant program, please visit: www.aarp.org/communitychallengegrant.