I’ve visited plenty of interesting places throughout Vermont, but a library with its own resident pugs? That’s a first worth talking about.
In the beautiful Southern Vermont village of Dorset, the Dorset Village Library Local favorite: Dorset Village Library is attracting attention for something you won’t find at most public libraries: two four-legged greeters named Toby and Anouk.
And while the pugs might be the reason you first stop by, the library itself is a wonderful example of how much a small-town institution can contribute to its community. Between book clubs, children’s programs, movie nights, creative workshops and seasonal celebrations, there’s considerably more happening here than checking out books.
Meet Toby and Anouk, the Dorset Library Pugs
Forget the stereotypical librarian reminding you to be quiet. At the Dorset Village Library, you might hear a bark or the sound of little paws making their way across the floor.
Toby and Anouk are the library’s resident pugs, and they’ve become local celebrities, greeting visitors and giving people another reason to stop by.
Library director Erica Shott has been bringing pugs to work for more than a decade, and Toby and Anouk are actually the third and fourth dogs to become part of the library’s extended staff.
Anouk was born in nearby Rupert, Vermont, while Toby was rescued from South Korea. Both have become beloved members of the library community, with visitors occasionally making special trips just to meet them.
The tradition began when Shott needed to bring one of her dogs to work following surgery. Visitors enjoyed having a dog around so much that the arrangement eventually became a permanent part of the library’s personality.
And these aren’t simply dogs lounging around the office. Depending on their mood, the pugs have even been known to sit with children while they read, offering a patient, furry audience for young readers.
I love the idea that two little dogs can make a library feel even more welcoming, especially for children who might be developing their confidence and enthusiasm for reading.
The pugs aren’t guaranteed to be out greeting visitors every day, so I’d recommend calling ahead if meeting Toby and Anouk is your main reason for visiting.
A Small-Town Library With a Big Community Calendar
The pugs might get much of the attention, but the Dorset Village Library has developed an impressive calendar of activities for a relatively small community.
Every Wednesday morning, the library hosts children’s story time, complete with books, songs and play. The first Wednesday of each month also features Story Time+, with an additional craft or activity for younger children.
For adults, there are multiple book clubs, including fiction, nonfiction and even a horror book club. The library also hosts a film club, technology help sessions and a weekly knitting group where beginners and experienced knitters can gather.
There’s even a Pokémon Club for kids and Dungeons & Dragons groups for teens and adults.
I particularly appreciate how the programming brings together different generations and interests. A library can be so much more than a place to borrow a book, and Dorset has embraced that opportunity.
From Haunted Libraries to Summer Cookouts
Some of the library’s most interesting events happen outside its regular weekly programming.
During the summer, the library hosts reading challenges, outdoor activities, educational programs and its annual Dog Days Cookout, a community gathering with free food, games, music and used books.
In the fall, the library gets especially creative with its Halloween programming. Its Haunted Library transforms the building into a seasonal attraction, with activities ranging from family-friendly celebrations to a scarier haunted house experience.
Other events have included art workshops, outdoor story walks, nature programs and holiday celebrations.
The calendar changes throughout the year, so it’s worth checking what is happening when you’re planning a visit to Dorset.
Why I Love This Little Vermont Library
I’ve always believed that small businesses and community gathering places are what make Vermont towns interesting. The Dorset Village Library is a wonderful reminder that public libraries belong in that conversation, too.
The library offers books and educational resources, but it also provides opportunities to meet neighbors, learn something new, introduce children to reading and participate in community traditions.
And the resident pugs add an unexpected dose of personality.
I love that people are making special trips to a library to meet two dogs. If that visit also encourages someone to pick up a book, attend an event or learn more about the library’s programs, all the better.
What to Know Before Visiting the Dorset Village Library
- Library
- Dorset Village Library
- Address
- 13 Church Street, Dorset, Vermont
- Famous Residents
- Toby and Anouk, the library pugs
- Known For
- Resident pugs, children’s story time, book clubs, community events, movie nights and seasonal celebrations
- Hours
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 11 AM–5 PM; Tuesday, 11 AM–6 PM; Saturday, 10 AM–3 PM; closed Sunday
- Local’s Tip
- If you’re hoping to meet Toby and Anouk, call ahead to see whether they’re at the library. And take a look at the events calendar before visiting. You might find a workshop, movie night or community celebration worth planning around.
More Than Just Books in Dorset, Vermont
Dorset is already one of my favorite Southern Vermont villages to explore, with its beautiful green, historic buildings and surrounding mountains. But the library adds another reason to spend time here.
Between the welcoming atmosphere, creative community programming and two particularly adorable four-legged staff members, the Dorset Village Library has developed a personality all its own.
And while I can’t promise Toby and Anouk will be on duty when you visit, I can promise that a library with resident pugs has earned a place on my list of unusual Vermont stops.
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