Tucked in the heart of Vermont, Stowe is a picturesque town with mountain views, cozy cafés, and a community that loves its library. Molly Nesselrodt, Assistant Director and Adult Services Librarian at the Stowe Free Library, shares her favorite spots for reading, exploring, and unwinding, plus tips for travelers who want to experience Stowe like a local.
Q: What led you to becoming a librarian in Stowe?
A: I was previously the director of a library in Pennsylvania and saw the posting for this position. I’d always wanted to live in Vermont, so I applied — and here I am!
Q: What do you love most about being a librarian in Stowe?
A: Working in a community that is so fiercely dedicated to its library.
Q: What’s something travelers often misunderstand or overlook about Stowe?
A: You need a car! Like most of Vermont, there are not great options for public transit. People also overlook that fall and winter are the best times to come, but summer is absolutely my favorite season in Stowe.
Q: Are there any bookish events (readings, festivals, etc.) travelers should know about?
A: Bridgeside Books does a lot of very fun events. And check out our website to see what the library has going on!
Q: Where do writers or readers in Stowe like to hang out?
A: Here at the library! Or just up the street at Black Cap Coffee.
Q: If a book lover had just one day in Stowe, what should they do?
A: Visit the Stowe Free Library, of course, and then stop by Bear Pond Books for a little shopping, hike up to Sunset Rock and read a book, have a drink at Butler’s Pantry, and people-watch on Main Street.
Q: How can travelers visit and help support the Stowe Free Library?
A: Stop in and help boost our door count! Follow us on social media and share a photo from your visit.
Quick Hits
- Favorite thing about living in Vermont: The vibrant, welcoming communities
- Describe Stowe in one word: Hallmark movie
- Underrated neighborhood or spot in Stowe: The Round Hearth, probably not underrated, but you should definitely add it to your “must see” list
- Favorite book set in, based on, or about Vermont: Not Stowe, but based on many Vermont towns — “Gather” by Kenneth Cadow
- Favorite local author or literary figure: Robert Frost
- Best place to spend a lazy afternoon with a book: A bench along the Stowe Recreation Path
- Best hidden gem in Stowe: The cemetery behind Town Hall
- Best time of year to visit Stowe: Fall, of course, or during the holidays! Just be prepared for traffic.
- Favorite local bookstore: Bear Pond Books or Bridgeside Bookstore
- Favorite local restaurant: The Bench or Doc Ponds
- Favorite local coffee shop or bakery: Stowe Bee Bakery or The Roastery
- Favorite museum or activity: Hiking the Sterling Pond Trail through Smugglers’ Notch
- Local charity to spotlight: Stowe Land Trust