Narragansett Library Named 'Nicest Place In America' Finalist

NARRAGANSETT, RI — In a time of uncertainty for Narragansett's public library, there is a light of hope. Reader's Digest named Maury Loontjens Memorial Library as Rhode Island's finalist in its "Nicest Place In America" competition.

The small library is little more than a stone's throw away from the water, serving year-round residents, summer tourists and University of Rhode Island students alike. Right now, the library's future is on unsteady ground, as the Narragansett Town Council voted to sell the building originally earmarked for expansion, The Providence Journal reported.

Residents have outspokenly supported the library, calling it a safe haven. The library was nominated by Suzan Amoruso, who said that it is a special place for her and her family. One feature in particular is very close to Amoruso's heart: a donated armchair that reminds her of her mother.

"I had a very sentimental chair that my mother sat in," she wrote in her nomination. "When it had to be given away the library was the perfect place for it. I can visit it and when I see others in it reading it brings me joy."

You can vote for the library on Reader's Digest's website, and check out other state's finalists.