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The Book Nook at Rotary Park

Our Vision

An Outdoor Library & Imagination Park

Rotary Southern York County is transforming Rotary Park in New Freedom into a vibrant, interactive outdoor haven for children and families — blending the joy of nature, the magic of imagination, and the love of reading.

“It’s not just a park. It’s a sanctuary for creativity, connection, and community spirit — a space that will enrich generations to come.”

This park will be a community beacon where children’s laughter meets the rustle of turning pages. Families can find a place to play, dream, and grow together.

Outdoor Library

Nature Play

Family Focused

Community-Built

What We’re Building

Project Components

The Book Nook combines a professionally built outdoor library with imaginative, nature-inspired play spaces — unlike any traditional library or plastic playground you’ve seen before.

Pavilion Library

12’ × 16’ weatherproof wood pavilion with metal roof
5 custom-built bookcases with plexiglass doors
Rustic log benches & cozy reading nooks
Operates on an honor system

Nature Playground

Weather-proof swing set (3 swings + slide + playhouse)
Climbing logs, stumps, ropes & stepping stones
Sandbox with protective cover
Outdoor toy-car racetrack

Imagination Spaces

Enchanted fairy garden
Sensory-rich exploration areas
Whimsical signage throughout
100% community book donations

Why It Matters

Community Enrichment

Boosts Literacy

Makes books freely accessible in a unique outdoor environment for all families.

Promotes Outdoor Activity

Combines reading with movement, exploration, and open-ended play.

Fosters Imagination

Blends creative play and storytelling for cognitive and emotional development.

Builds Community Pride

A shared space encouraging connection, volunteerism, and local stewardship.

Supports Local Families

Free, inclusive, and open to everyone — encouraging unplugged, meaningful time together.

A Lasting Legacy

A gift to Southern York County that will enrich generations to come.

Allie Waldron Memorial Golf Tournament and Crab Feast

10:00am Shotgun | 9:00am Registration

A fundraising event to benefit the Rotary of Southern York County’s education and literacy efforts.

Registration Deadline: September 20, 2026

Allie Waldron Memorial Golf Tournament and Crab Feast - Rotary of Southern York County

Fundraising & Construction

Road to Opening Day

Construction costs will be raised over the next year and a half, with the goal of opening the park in Spring 2027. Here’s how we’re getting there:

Quarterly Events

2026 — Casual community gatherings at local venues highlighting progress & sponsor opportunities

Golf Tournament

2026 — Annual Rotary tournament with proceeds benefiting The Book Nook

Gala Night

January 2027 — Ticketed evening with catered dining, live music & silent auction

Grand Opening

Spring 2027 — The Book Nook at Rotary Park opens its doors to the community

Leave Your Mark

Donor Legacy Program

Leave a lasting connection to the park with a named sponsorship. Limited spots are available at each level — once they’re claimed, they’re gone. Full online donation capability coming soon.

Sponsor a Bookcase

Name on plaque — 5 available

$1,500

Sponsor a Reading Bench

Name on plaque — 5 available

$1,000

Sponsor a Stepping Stone

Name on stone — 20 available

$500

Sponsor a Pavilion Brick

Name on brick — 500 available

$100

Interested in sponsoring? Contact us at your next Rotary event or through the golf tournament registration. A general donation fund will be available on this page soon.

Be Part of Something Beautiful.

The Book Nook at Rotary Park is a lasting gift to Southern York County — a place where literacy, nature, and imagination meet. Join us in making it a reality.