Westerly Sun Column | Library Can Help You Discover ‘Hidden’ R.I.

Last week, my 6-year-old — dinky, plastic shovel in hand — enthusiastically proposed a trip to a local trail to dig for gems and fossils. Unfortunately, being that the high that day was in the mid-20s and the ground undoubtedly frozen, I had to gently suggest an alternate activity. Still, I was thrilled that she was interested in a trip that took us off the beaten path, and away from the same three or four venues we typically visit! It inspired me to do a bit more research into “hidden” (and not-so-hidden) local spots to visit throughout the year. And, of course, my first stop was the library!

If you live in Connecticut or Rhode Island, there’s a decent chance that you’ve heard the name Marty Podskoch before. Podskoch is a retired teacher, historian, and author who has done extensive work in documenting the history of fire towers in the Catskills, and writing about the Adirondacks. Now a resident of Connecticut, Podskoch is best-known around here for his local travel guides, namely “The Rhode Island 39 Club” (2021) and “The Connecticut 169 Club” (2018), which are described as passports for exploring the states. Each book includes a chapter for each town or village in the state, written with the assistance of locals, detailing their histories, backstories, and most interesting places to visit. They also act as a passport of sorts, as readers are encouraged to visit each of the towns and have someone stamp the book (though, not the library’s copy), with the ultimate goal of making your way through the entire state!

Whether you want to “catch them all” or just want to kill a few hours on a Sunday morning, the books are full of great ideas, interesting facts, and unique sites that you probably haven’t experienced before. They are also available for check-out through the library consortium. If you’re free this evening, Marty Podskoch will be giving a talk in our auditorium from 6-7 p.m., in which he shares some of the highlights from “The Rhode Island 39 Club” that will surely inspire you to take a few day trips (even if it’s just 20 minutes down the road)!

In addition to Podskoch’s books, we have a great collection of other travel guides at the library, for destinations near and far. If you’re looking to stay close to home, “Secret Rhode Island: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure” by Robert Curley offers fun facts and information on unique sites throughout our small state. “East Coasting: The Ultimate Roadtripper’s Guide to New England” is a new book by Christine Chitnis that would be perfect for folks interested in venturing just a bit further, or, you may prefer something a bit more niche such as “The Great Clam Cake and Fritter Guide” by Carolyn Wyman. There’s something for every age, budget, and taste!

by Cassie Skobrak, Adult Services Librarian