Little Libraries

Have you ever passed a homemade casing with books and wondered “why is there books in there out on the street?” Well someone had put up a little Free library. This project has grabbed my attention for years. It makes my heart happy, I love to read, and sharing. If I was in an area that I could put up my own Little Free library I would do it in a heartbeat. 

They where started officially in 2009 by Todd H Bol in Wisconsin. His inspiring project ended up in 88 countries Mr. Bol lived to be 62

I saw my first little library on a trip to the USA. We traveled about two hours south of the Canadian border. I insisted we pull over and see this little house on the side of the road filled with books. I was so excited I took a photo. Not sure where that photo is at this time. It was just so cool!

It took me seeing a few more years later to look it up to see what it was all about. I’m not sure that I myself have taken a book but of how I would love too. 

If you would like to find one in your area, type into your web browser “Little Free Libraries” (with your areas name)

Some of the things I love about the little libraries is that anyone can take or leave a book. If someone has no affixed address sometimes they can’t obtain a public library card. If people are like myself and take a long time reading the book there is no time limit, no renewing the book or contending with fines or late fees. Some families don’t live near a public library or have extra money to share books. 

I read about a person in their 40’s learning to read and being inspired by a little free library 

If you ever are inspired to do a Little Free library in your area please learn about your bylaws. If you need some ideas on making there is a lot of good resources on the Little free library web page under the build tab

Here are some blueprints and step by step instructions  

As I was reading about what it takes to be part of this amazing project I learned that in my own country that more people have been getting involved during covid. Not in my area but on Vancouver Island in greater Victoria in Jan 2021 are 400 recorded little free libraries

If you are in to a traditional look or a geek of sorts. If you are creative or someone that loves books Little Free Libraries could be in your area with a little planning. I would love to read if you have a favorite book have seen or build a little library.