Little Free Library
In cities all around the country, Little Free Libraries are appearing, offering neighborhoods their own way of sharing books and connecting with neighbors. In its most basic form, a Little Free Library is a box full of books where anyone may stop by and pick up a book (or two or three), and if they choose they can bring back another book to give away. A team can initiate and set-up the box, and be the ongoing "librarians."
Objectives
Share books; re-use; get to know neighbors; enhance the community
Group Size
Materials
Make or purchase a box large enough for the range of common-sized books, including picture books. It must be sturdy and weatherproof, with a front door that opens easily and closes securely. It's best to have a clear door -glass or plastic - so the contents can be viewed. Mount it on a post. (Consider height - can people in wheelchairs reach in? children? Do you want to include a bench nearby? Can people browse without being in danger by a driveway or curb?) A small notebook and pen so people can write comments and brief book reviews. Best to attach them inside the box, with a ribbon or string.
Set Up
Refer to and register with Little Free Library. Decorate the box. Ask a senior center, day care center, emergency shelter or other public spaces if your team can erect the library in front of their facility.
Directions
Include a Little Free Library brochure. Fill the box with books; soon others will add to them. Go for variety - children's books, how-tos, novels, poetry . . . If any books remain for a long time, rotate them out (to other Little Free Libraries in you community?)
Debrief
Enjoy the neighborhood interactions.
Alternatives
Some people mount one box for any ages; others provide one box for adults and another for children. Seats or benches, and coverings for shade and shelter, may be added. A team can make/supply/publicize Little Free Libraries for many neighborhoods. As a fundraiser for charity, the team could auction or sell the boxes. See also the Teampedia activities What have you been reading?, Library, and Book Group
