Little Free Libraries are Increasing Access to Books

Originally published inThe Belton Journal prior to the availability of their digital archive

Bookworms will have likely noticed the recent trend of small wooden boxes popping up around town that contain books that are free for the taking. These are called Little Free Libraries, they are all the rage within the bookish community, and they are expanding people’s access to books all around the world.

Little Free Library, a nonprofit organization whose tagline is “Take a Book, Share a Book” is based in Wisconsin, and they seek to “be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries.” The organization’s website boasts that there are over 100,000 Little Libraries in over 100 countries around the world. They also claim that they give fully-stocked libraries to impoverished urban, suburban, rural, and Native communities at no cost. 

Anyone can set up their own Little Free Library in front of their house, in their apartment complex, at their place of business, or even in a park. Wooden libraries are available for purchase on the Little Free Library’s website, but they can get a little pricey. Many people opt to create their own libraries, which is part of what makes the Little Library trend so charming and unique. A quick online search yields endless results of creative DIY Little Library ideas, including repurposed furniture, mailboxes, newspaper stands, and even microwaves. It costs $40 to officially register a Little Library and get it on the map, but this is not required. Once your library is set up, you can begin to fill it with books—these can be from your personal collection or cheap books from yard sales or second-hand bookshops. In no time, people from your community will begin to utilize the Little Library and fill it with their own books.

Little Free Libraries are an amazing way to promote literacy and provide easy access to books, as well as a fun way to engage a community.