The Alma Craib Memorial Garden was founded in 1972 through the efforts of the Plainview Garden Club, built by student volunteers from BOCES, and paid for by donations from, in the words of the original dedication speech, “public-spirited Plainview-Old Bethpage citizens, organizations, and businesses.” In that self same dedication from September of 1972, it is described as “a rare example of public and private cooperation for the public good.”
The garden was established with a dual purpose - first, to honor the life and contributions of Mrs. Alma Craib to her community, and second, to provide for the community a restful place to sit and find comfort in the presence of such beauty. As it turns out, as the founder of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Senior Citizens Club and an active member of the Plainview Garden Club, these were the aspirations by which Mrs. Alma Craib lived her life.
Since then, a new addition was added in 2016 in honor of those who lost their lives on that tragic day of September 11, 2001. The monument was created by artist David Haussler featuring a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.
Garden Updates
June 18, 2024 - Final
June 10, 2024
You're invited to the Rededication Ceremony of the Alma Craib Memorial Garden on Tuesday, June 18 at 10:30 am
The Board of Trustees of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library is proud to announce the Rededication of the Alma Craib Memorial Garden.
Join us as we celebrate! Light refreshments will be provided.
In a spirit of reverence and inclusivity, we are excited to announce the rededication of the Alma Craib Memorial Garden. This revitalization represents more than just restoration; it underscores our steadfast commitment to honoring the memories of our community within a space that welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities. As the garden flourishes anew, our dedication to nurturing unity and belonging within our community is reignited.
The rededicated Alma Craib Memorial Garden now stands as a beacon of accessibility, ensuring that visitors of all ages and abilities can find solace and connection within its tranquil surroundings. With widened pathways and thoughtfully designed seating areas, the garden extends a heartfelt invitation to all, encouraging them to wander its paths, enjoy its fragrant blooms, and reflect on cherished memories in an environment that respects and accommodates their needs.
At the core of our rededication lies a celebration of diversity and unity. By prioritizing accessibility for all, we honor the diverse experiences and perspectives that enrich our community.
As we come together to rededicate the Alma Craib Memorial Garden, we do so with a sense of hope and renewal. May this rejuvenated space serve as a sanctuary for reflection, healing, and connection for generations to come. Let the memories it holds dear continue to inspire us to embrace inclusivity, compassion, and understanding in all our endeavors.
The connection between our library and memorial garden is rooted in a shared sense of community—a belief in the power of connection to inspire, and uplift. Whether seeking knowledge within the library's walls or solace within the garden's embrace, visitors are united by a common thread of belonging and shared experience. Through this connection, we forge a stronger, more compassionate community for generations to come.
As we reflect on the profound impact of these spaces on our community, they serve as guiding lights of remembrance and enlightenment, leading us on a journey of self-discovery and connection. Together, they serve as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting us to honor our history while embracing the possibilities of the future.
May this garden stand as a symbol of inclusivity, unity, and comfort, extending a warm welcome to all who seek solace and connection within its embrace. We deeply appreciate you following us along in this extraordinary journey.
May 8, 2024
The plantings and benches have arrived!!
This past week’s progress has made a tremendous impact on the overall appearance of the garden. As the project nears completion, we are excited to share the latest developments with our community. Over the past several weeks, significant strides have been made in transforming the vision of the Memorial Garden into a tangible reality. Guided by meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, our construction team has worked tirelessly to bring this meaningful project to fruition.
Key milestones reached include:
- Landscaping and Hardscaping: The landscaping and hardscaping elements of the garden have been expertly crafted to create a harmonious blend of natural beauty and serene ambiance. Lush greenery, flowering plants, and carefully curated pathways now grace the landscape, providing a tranquil setting for visitors.
- Structural Installations: Essential structural elements, including seating areas, and memorial plaques, have been installed with precision and care. These features serve as focal points within the garden, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and honor the memories of their loved ones.
- Aesthetic Enhancements: The Memorial Garden's aesthetic enhancements, including decorative accents, lighting fixtures, and artistic installations, have been thoughtfully integrated to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. Every detail has been considered to create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and healing.
- Accessibility and Safety: Ensuring accessibility and safety for all visitors has been a top priority throughout the construction process. Wheelchair-accessible pathways and well-lit areas have been incorporated to ensure that the garden can be enjoyed by individuals of all abilities.
As this project enters its final phases, we remain committed to delivering a Memorial Garden that will serve as a timeless tribute. Plans for the garden's grand opening and dedication ceremony are underway, with details to be announced in the coming weeks.
April 10, 2024
The rain hasn't stopped our progress!
Pavers around the Memorial Garden have been installed in a beautiful intricate pattern that accentuates the 911 Memorial. The retaining wall has been laid out and the new pathways have been constructed. New benches and foliage will be arriving soon!
Check back for more progress and we continue to beautify this beloved space!
March 25, 2024
Installation of the redesigned pathway is well underway, and we’re excited to report that the project is progressing smoothly and ahead of schedule. The structural framework is taking shape, and the foundation has been laid. The careful planning and attention to detail that has gone into this development are evident in the progress made.
TREE UPDATE:
WE LOVE OUR TREES!
We understand the importance of preserving the environment and the benefits trees provide. However, after consulting with a certified arborist, it has been determined that the tree closest to Joel Place within the Memorial Garden could become a major safety factor in the near future. Removing it will not only eliminate the potential dangers but will prevent the roots from continuing to spread throughout the garden, lifting the paths and causing more damage. We empathize with your concerns regarding the removal of the tree. However, we assure you that we are committed to the preservation of nature and the overall aesthetics of our neighborhood. We will plant a suitable replacement with the guidance of our arborists, ensuring the ecosystem remains balanced and visually appealing. This project is a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and create a more vibrant community.
If you have any questions regarding this renovation project, noise levels, or related matters, please feel free to email [email protected] or call 516-938-0077 Ext. 239.
March 13, 2024
Plans to restore and improve the Alma Craib Memorial Garden are underway! With luck and good weather, this project should be completed by May 2024. This well-loved area needs repairs and replanting. The space will be enlarged, making the area easier to maneuver and more accessible when visitors are present. New benches and ADA-compatible spaces will allow for multiple guests, including those with strollers, to converse without the need to relocate.
The design includes perennials and plantings native to Long Island to create a well-maintained garden space that is beautiful to humans and pollinators. The plan calls for rearranging the original path to create an entry and exit space, further enhancing the visitors' experience.
In conjunction with the Garden restoration, additional site enhancements to reinvigorate the property will allow visitors to enjoy outdoor seating at both library entrances.
New lighting will amplify the building’s presence at night throughout all areas.
The Alma Craib Memorial Garden will continue to attract family and friends and is the perfect venue for making new memories!