Tim Fisher, a 16-year-old from Feasterville-Trevose, didn’t always enjoy reading.
As a child, he was forced to overcome dyslexia — a learning disorder that involves difficulty in identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words.
Now, this rising Neshaminy High School senior loves it, and wants to share his passion for literature and creative writing with local kids through his Eagle Scout project.
In order to earn the highest individual rank in the Boy Scouts of America, one must brainstorm and complete an initiative that benefits the community. For his project, Fisher is encouraging visitors of all ages at Playwicki Farm, 2350 Bridgetown Pike, to read more.
Currently, Fisher is working to construct six custom-made boxes, which will make up his newly-conceptualized free lending library at the historic farm.
The boxes are being built and stained with the assistance of other scouts, family members and community volunteers at the Assumption B.V.M. Church, 1900 Meadowbrook Road, where his Troop #153, part of the Washington Crossing Council, meets.
“People can come and take out books, but they must leave one in return,” Fisher said of how the initiative will work.
Rose McMenamin, president of the Playwicki Farm Foundation, is excited about the project. According to her, the six library boxes will be permanently located just adjacent to the farmhouse entrance, which is a short proximity to the playground area.
Also expressing pride is Tina Fisher, his assistant scout leader and mother.
“I think that this is a terrific project,” she said. “I’m a great fan of libraries because they encourage and promote reading at all levels.”
When Fisher isn’t working to promote reading in his community, he’s also playing lacrosse at Neshaminy, working part-time at the Wawa on Brownsville Road, and is part of the environmental services team at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, New Jersey.
Given Playwicki Farm’s lengthy history in the area, it’s likely that Fisher’s library boxes will see much use.
The space, which was purchased from the estate of Elizabeth Snodgras on May 18, 1994 by the Lower Southampton Township board of supervisors, offers guests open space, a wildlife habitat, jogging path, children’s play area, refurbished barn and more.
Soon, it will also offer the chance to immerse oneself in a good story.
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
