For the past year, I’ve hosted a Little Free Library at my home. It has been a delightful adventure, with hundreds of visitors stopping by to borrow and exchange books. I was grateful to be awarded a grant in order to install my library in an effort to break down access barriers to books.
Today, I want to share why you should consider starting your own and some tips on how to make it happen.
Why Start a Little Free Library?
Foster a Love of Reading
There is something magical about seeing kids and adults alike discover a new book that sparks their interest. A Little Free Library helps cultivate a love of reading right in your own neighborhood. I’ve seen children eagerly rush up to the library on their way home from school, excited to find their next great adventure. I’ve seen seasoned adult readers stop and ponder a new book they may have never thought to pick up. It’s a simple way to encourage literacy and lifelong learning.
Promote Inclusivity and Access
Books are gateways to empathy and understanding, and having a variety of books accessible to all is essential. Our Little Free Library includes books on diverse topics, featuring characters from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. I received a personal note of thanks from one lesbian couple who have been together for decades and raised two boys. They loved to see that I put the book “Heather Has Two Mommies” in the library. It’s a small but significant way to promote inclusivity and make everyone in the community feel welcome.
Encourage Sustainability
By sharing books, you’re helping to reduce waste and encourage recycling. Instead of buying new books, our community can enjoy a shared library that benefits everyone. Plus, seeing a beloved book find a new home and bringing joy to someone else is incredibly fulfilling.
How to Start Your Own Little Free Library
Here are the steps I took to get our Little Free Library up and running, and some tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Choose a Good Location
Find a spot that’s easily accessible and visible from the street. Our library is right next to our mailbox, on a well-traveled street, which makes it easy for people to pull over, park, and browse. Think about how you can make it safe and convenient for visitors. And, this goes without saying, but make sure you have permission to dig in that area. If you are on a park board or connected in the community, you may be able to identify a high-traffic spot to install a library! - Get a Little Free Library Box
You can build your own library or purchase one from Little Free Library online. I opted to purchase a ready-made library box from the Little Free Library organization, which made the process much easier. There are many ways to get creative if you want to build your own, so I encourage you explore some boards on Pinterest. - Register Your Library
Registering your library with the Little Free Library organization helps others find it and adds it to the official map of registered libraries. You’ll receive a charter sign with a unique number that you can display on your library. This was a great way to get the word out and attract more visitors! - Stock Your Library with Books
Start with a variety of books for all ages and interests. I included everything from
children’s picture books to young adult novels, adult fiction, and non-fiction. Don’t be afraid to ask friends and neighbors for book donations! You’ll be surprised how many people are willing to contribute. I even have a wish list through Beaverdale Books where they will deliver any books purchased for my library. My friends over at Annie’s Foundation also make sure I’m never wanting for a fresh stack of books to share with the community. - Promote Your Library
Use social media, local community groups, or even word of mouth to let people know about your new library. I created a simple Facebook page to keep neighbors updated on new books, events, and themes. - Maintain Your Library
Keep your Little Free Library neat and inviting by regularly checking for damaged books and replenishing the stock as needed. Make it a fun family activity! My kids love helping me sort and organize the books – it’s a great way to teach them about responsibility and giving back to the community.
My Experience After a Year
After a year of hosting our Little Free Library, I can genuinely say it’s been a joy to see how it has grown and evolved. We’ve had hundreds of visitors, from tiny toddlers to elderly neighbors, and each one has brought their unique touch to our library. I’ve loved seeing books come and go and dreaming about the journey they take.
Our Little Free Library has become a beloved part of our neighborhood, and it’s a simple yet powerful way to share a love of reading, promote inclusivity, and build a stronger community. I encourage you to consider starting one at your home – it’s a rewarding experience that can make a big difference!
Let’s keep the pages turning in Des Moines – one Little Free Library at a time!
