Our Mission
The goal of The Common Place is to cultivate the artistic, literary, and creative interests in the Northeast Kingdom and surrounding communities and to support the local economy through a broad range of community events and educational initiatives.
About Our Name
When paper became easily available in the 14th century, communities began writing down important public information in what was called a commonplace book. One handy, bound volume—a common place book—was the source for reference materials, accounts of arguments, and quotes, and ‘commonplacing’ became a widely used method of recording and sharing knowledge. From these origins, The Common Place took its name.
Our Structure
The Common Place, Inc. is a nonprofit “umbrella” organization under which Stardust Books and Café and The Art House Gallery, Studio & School can operate to carry out our mission. We are governed by a board of trustees, assisted by an advisory council, and each business is run by a director and staff.
About the Businesses
Stardust Books and Café is located in the former Craftsbury Common Public Library and offers a quaint, warm and inviting atmosphere. Products and services available include:
New and used books
Free book ordering and teacher discounts
Journals, greeting cards, locally-made gifts
Author events, poetry “slams”, other events
Locally made cafe items
Espresso and cappuccinos
Wireless internet access
The Learn-to-Earn program at Stardust makes all of these things possible. In this unique program, local teens work in all aspects of the store’s operations. With adult mentorship, supervision and guidance, these teens:
Are empowered to create, plan, and lead
Develop and practice work skills
Explore business and entrepreneurship
Engage with people in the community
Earn community respect
Develop and showcase their innate abilities
As a nonprofit, Stardust plans to expand its hours of operation, offer additional literary programs for youth and adults, organize youth activities and events, and provide a safe space for teens to socialize and do homework after school or some evenings.
The Art House Gallery, Studio & School is located just south of Stardust Books and Café at the edge of Craftsbury Common, and occupies two floors of a former home. Downstairs the living and dining spaces have been converted into a fine arts gallery and gift shop. Upstairs are studios for student and artist use, a dark room, a classroom, and a writer’s studio.
Programs and services offered include classes,workshops, and events taught by talented local artists. From traditional oil painting techniques for teens and adults, to felting with children, these activities teach creativity and build skills in people of all ages.
First Friday Artist Talks give patrons an opportunity to meet and speak with well-known and successful artists.
Second Saturday Workshops provide fun weekend activities for families or individuals.
Rotating gallery exhibits highlight Vermont fine artists such as Maggie Neale, Lois Eby, Elizabeth Nelson, and David Smith, while also providing high schoolers and other artists with space to showcase their work.
