I’ve been inspired. Let me back things up for a minute. I have always loved to cook; In fact I briefly thought about going to culinary school long before library school. I have been collecting cookbooks for years. Most of the time I read them in the same way I would read a favorite fiction novel. Then I place them back on the shelf to collect dust.
My latest inspiration is the Princeton Farmers’ Market which returned this past Thursday rain or shine, on the Alfred E. Hinds Plaza. The market was held in the library’s community room monthly over the winter, but it doesn’t compare to the outdoor version. Each week there is a wide array of delicious fresh produce, cheeses, meats, breads and eggs that await me. There is even wine to compliment my dinner.
I have always believed in shopping locally and using the freshest ingredients possible. You can’t get much fresher than produce that was picked just that morning. I am always so excited to wander out to the market. My mind races with the possibilities…a wild mushroom and cheese tart, roasted beets with goat cheese in a salad.
Along with all the tempting foods found on the plaza, the market offers fresh cut flowers, interesting potted herbs for your garden, artisan breads and fresh fruit or vegetable smoothies. Local musicians stop by and add an air of festivity to an already fun afternoon.
Beginning June 21, the library will once again have our own table at the market staffed by some of our intrepid teen volunteers. I’ll be stocking the table with the latest program information, displaying some of the “hot” items in our collection and have some freebies for the public too. Our teen volunteers will be ready to create a simple craft that the littlest market shopper can take home with them.
If you don’t already patronize the Princeton Farmers’ Market, I strongly encourage you to stop by for a visit.