In their quest for a cleaner, greener way to clear out weeds, underbrush and poison ivy, the Central Library took a page from the East Greenwich Animal Protection League and hired Laurel Hill MicroFarm's Herd of Hope to clear out the overgrown brush surrounding the upper parking lot.

On July 18, the Cranston Public Library welcomed approximately 30 goats to the Central Library. 

“We were looking for an effective way of controlling plant growth on the land surrounding our parking lot,” explained Library Director Ed Garcia.

“Goatscaping was a fun and affordable option and we hope library visitors will enjoy the chance to watch these farm animals in action,” said Garcia.

The funding for the goats came from the library operating budget and cost $700.

“Usually landscapers have cost several thousand to clean those areas, and, it does not infringe on any city workers as this area is not currently landscaped by the city due to the large amount of poison ivy,” Garcia said.

The goats had visitors each day, children of all ages enjoyed watching them work.

“I would want a goat at my house so he could eat all the weeds in my mommy’s garden,” said 6-year-old Xavier.

“But, I would make my dad clean up the poop,” he added.

The goats ended up staying over two nights instead of the scheduled one.

“They are staying another since the goats have been taking more shade breaks due to the humidity and the rain,” said Garcia.

Garcia said Monday that the goats ended up devouring approximately 15,000 square feet of greenery.