Your guide to creating a fun and free space for the readers in your community by starting your own Little Free Library.
A box of free books is a beautiful sight on its own, but when it comes to Little Free Libraries, these boxes take it to a whole new level. If you’re looking for a little inspiration when it comes to creating your very own Little Free Library, look no further. Feeling inspired but not sure how to get started? Check out our step-by-step how-to to get the process started. Your community will thank you!
What Is a Little Free Library?
In short, a reader’s dream come true. A Little Free Library is a free book-sharing box that promotes both reading and community. It’s a small, portable library where anyone can take a book or share a book and the purpose is to foster a love of literacy and a sense of community. Homeowners place libraries on their property and anyone can use them. The boxes come in many shapes and sizes and part of the fun is getting to design and create a box that will draw people in.
Here Are 15 Little Free Libraries to Inspire You
If we’ve got your attention but you’re feeling a little uninspired when it comes to the creative side of things, here are a few boxes that are sure to spark your creativity.
1. Little Free Library #12009 Silver Spring, MD
Think “upcycle” when creating your very own Little Free Library. This hollowed-out grandfather clock is a fantastic example of how you can repurpose old furniture.
2. Little Free Library #12147 Québec, QC
A whimsical box is always eye-catching! Think about your favorite children’s books and the characters that live within the pages.
3. Little Free Library #26772 Rochester, MN
4. Little Free Library #5163 Austin, TX
Bring new life to old tree stumps by using them as a post for your Little Free Library.
5. Little Free Library #17066 Seattle, WA
6. Little Free Library #48176 Kollam, India
Not only are you encouraged to get creative with your box, but you can get creative with the space around your box – like these hanging books!
7. A Little Free Library with a Succulent Roof
Don’t worry, you don’t have to have a green thumb. Whether it’s succulents or flowers you want on your Little Free Library, fake plants and flowers exist for a reason!
8. Little Free Library #7688 Hudson, WI
Adding a bench or some kind of unique seating can really encourage people to sit and stay awhile.
9. Little Free Library #45381 Roanoke, VA
What once was a newspaper vending box is now an intricately designed Little Free Library.
10. Little Free Library #46112 Coupeville, WA
11. Little Free Library #9581 Redondo Beach, CA
12. Little Free Library #50669 Farmington, MN
13. Little Free Library #48066 San Leandro, CA
14. Little Free Library #46029 Torrance, CA
Let a local landmark inspire you like this movie theater in Torrance, California!
15. Little Free Library #44449 Llano, TX
Starting Your Own Little Free Library 101
If you want to start your own Little Free Library, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide and video that get you going. You can also utilize the Little Free Library map to scope out owners near you and ask them any questions you may have.
Location, Location, Location
First, decide where you can legally and safely install the library. The location should also have a lot of foot traffic and be highly visible to anyone nearby. Then identify at least one person to be the steward (steward = caretaker). This person promotes the library and makes sure it is clean and inviting.
A Library, As You Like It
You can build your own Little Free Library following any design you like; find someone locally to build one for you; or purchase a library through Little Free Library’s online store. Libraries purchased through our online store are automatically registered and come with a charter sign included.
Make It Official
Register by purchasing an official charter sign. If you buy a Little Free Library from the online store, it will automatically come registered with a charter sign included. If you build your own book-sharing box, register it by purchasing a charter sign. After you register, you gain access to a network of benefits just for stewards, such as the option to set up your steward account and list your library on the Little Free Library mobile app and web map.
Steward Account Activated
After you purchase your Little Free Library or charter sign, you will receive an email with a link to set up your steward account. Once you have set up your steward account, you have the option to add your library’s location to the world map and manage all of its details in real time. Your library will not appear on the map unless you add it. To map your library, log in to your steward account through the Little Free Library app or steward web portal, fill in your library’s information, and set its Map Status to Mapped.
Get the Word Out
Get your community involved! Tell your friends, family, and neighbors in person. Use social media to engage your community. Hold a Grand Opening Ceremony and invite your neighbors to kick off the library in style with a ribbon cutting, snacks, and books freely exchanged! Contact the local paper, radio, and TV stations. Send out a press release. The more people who know about your library and support it, the better.
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Migz
Victoria Lewis
Victoria is a freelance writer, dog lover, and coffee enthusiast living with her husband and dog in a small town in Kansas. Surrounded by an expansive to-be-read pile, she spends her time either deeply engrossed in a book or listening to one. As a fervent supporter of both bookstores and public libraries, Victoria enjoys sharing her latest reads on social media, connecting with fellow bibliophiles, and diligently updating her Goodreads profile.
