STONE RIDGE – The focal point of Stone Ridge is not a bar, cafe, or restaurant: right the middle of Main Street, it is the buttressed stone walls of the Stone Ridge Public Library that house the heart of 100 years of community (officially, this is its 101st year). Expanding and progressing along with the area, the library remains an inclusive meeting place for residents of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds — in fact, 85 percent of Marbletown residents are the proud owner of a library card. Moving with the times, the library now offers free online service, an expanded children's and young adult section, and an interactive website. The community and library management come together each year to celebrate the much-beloved Library Fair — occurring this year on June 12, which raises funds to keep the library vibrant and up-to-date; and, recently, the Stone Ridge Library Foundation was formed to make certain the inspiring trademark buildings last well into the next century.

One might say that Jody Ford, Library Director, and Diane DeChillo, Program Manager, make up the heart of this community. Together, they co-chair the Library Fair, as well as handling the grant-writing, publicity and community relations. It is immediately apparent that it is the love of this storied institution, and the community it serves, that is at the root of their dedication.

"It has always been the center of the community. We watch our kids grow up here," says a smiling Ms. Ford. "We like to say that the library is the heart of the community, and it is," adds Ms. DeChillo.

With the cooperation of the board and trustees, they each are largely responsible for the task of raising, and managing, the funds that are the library's lifeblood, for both the day-to-day operations, and for the restoration foundation.

Established in 2005, the Stone Ridge Library Foundation is committed to maintaining these historic buildings — one built in 1798, the other in 1811 — in their original glory. After first establishing an operating plan, the next stage was to address the integrity of the trademark stone structure. In 2007, with the help a New York State grant and other donations, building-stabilization buttresses were completed, which will provide up to eight years worth of sound support as the final phase is organized.

That third phase, now being launched, is the careful planning and implementation of a full restoration, all the while maintaining the most active and functional library service possible. In coming months, the opportunity to contribute to this worthy cause will become more and more widely publicized.

Most cherished of all, throughout Marbletown, is the annual Stone Ridge Library Fair, taking place on library grounds on June 12. This time-honored festival features music for young and old, wonderful home-made food (be sure to try the strawberry shortcake, a fair-day tradition), wares and presentations from local craftspeople — and, of course, a plethora of books. As it does each year, the library welcomes any and all volunteers to help make this magical day a reality. A volunteer meeting is scheduled at the library for Saturday, April 24, from 11 a.m. to 12 noon.