By Sally Barmakian

On the curb of a house in a quiet neighborhood is a thick, wooden post with a small house on top stained to enhance the natural wood color. It looks like a large birdhouse with a peaked roof, but the house has a glass door, displaying shelves of books. This little structure is a Free Library, sharing books to anyone who cares to borrow. 

Many people donate books to public libraries for their used books sales or share their books with friends and family, but this unique idea shares books with the neighborhood or anyone who stops their car, to try a book.

Maybe you are walking your dog or just taking a healthy walk. The little wooden box, stained and sturdy, may have a book for you. It may say, “Take one, leave one” painted near the top. 

In some neighborhoods, books are put out specifically for neighbors who may need to read about an issue and just need a nudge. It could help a reluctant reader who delights in the surprise of the next book put in the little box. Of course, you can return the book when you are done reading it or donate one of your own. Some books have intriguing Post-Its on them:   Surprise Ending! Lots of twists and turns! Funny and captivating! Others are well-worn favorites waiting to be shared. 

Look for some Little Library Boxes in your area or you just may come upon one by chance. They are popping up all over the world! On my recent visits to some local Free Libraries, I found one with a riddle written on the side panels as an added fun feature. Each library had a variety of books: paperbacks, hardcovers, children’s books and even bookmarks! 

Little Free Library structures can be purchased or it could be fun to build one of your own- a great DIY family project – Kids can even help paint it!

It is best to check with your town for any zoning restrictions and to use Littlefreelibrary.org to guide you in how to register your library. Then you will become a charter member with an official library. 

Now you are the steward or caretaker of your library. Think of neighbors who may not be able to get to a library or a way to give away the books you have stored for so long but do not want to discard in the trash. Neighbors will be sure to support and enjoy your library. We can all share in simple cost-free ways. What could be better than sharing a book?