Out of the thirty libraries I’ll be photographing, Stockbridge is the one I visit most often. My son attends school just ten minutes away, which makes it a convenient place to work remotely. The neighboring Stockbridge Coffee & Tea is another draw, a hidden gem and my favorite cafés thanks to their variety for tea drinkers. Add in lunch at Michael’s, a favorite spot for locals, and the occasional appointment with my stylist at Seven Salon Spa, and it’s easy to see why I find myself at this library so often.
Stockbridge is the first library in which I didn’t contact the director and librarian before I arrived to shoot. Since the librarians have been so supportive of me roaming the stacks taking photos — and I do tell them I’m not photographing people or artwork, to put them at ease — showing up without an appointment gives me a chance to explain my project in person and connect on a human level, face-to-face.
Witnessing staff reactions to this project has been profoundly affirming. Every time a librarian and I discover that our individual goals are ultimately aligned, it reinforces my belief in the “why” behind The Last Quiet Place. Each shoot has been adding a layer of confidence and stability to the foundation of this body of work.
I spoke with Library Assistant Cathy Buffoni during my visit, who can only be described as charismatic, knowledgeable, and exceptionally kind. It wasn’t until I later researched the library that I discovered she’s a local treasure, having served at Stockbridge Library for over 50 years! She surely doesn’t remember me each time I’ve since passed by with a smile and a “Hi!”, but I feel grateful, and unexpectedly comforted, knowing that Cathy is at the helm of the front desk, looking after Stockbridge Library and its community.
Founded in 1862, during the Civil War, Stockbridge Library is one of the oldest libraries in Berkshire County, over 160 years old!
Stockbridge Library also houses the Procter Museum & Archives of Stockbridge History, which preserves documents, artifacts, and artwork related to the town.