Imagine strolling through your neighborhood and coming across a small, charming wooden box filled with books. Inside, you find everything from classic novels to children’s picture books, from thrilling mysteries to inspiring memoirs. The best part? You can take a book home for free—no library card, no due date. And if you have a book to share, you can leave one behind for someone else to enjoy.
This is the magic of Little Free Libraries—a worldwide movement built on the simple yet powerful idea of "Take One, Leave One." These miniature book exchanges foster a love of reading, encourage generosity, and create a sense of community, one book at a time.
Where It All Began
The Little Free Library movement started in 2009 when Todd Bol of Hudson, Wisconsin, built a small wooden box resembling a one-room schoolhouse. He placed it in his front yard and filled it with books in honor of his mother, a former schoolteacher who loved to read. His neighbors loved the idea, and soon, the concept spread beyond his community. Today, there are over 150,000 registered Little Free Libraries in more than 120 countries, connecting book lovers of all ages.
Who Builds Little Free Libraries?
One of the beautiful things about Little Free Libraries is that they can be created by anyone—individuals, families, businesses, schools, or community groups. Some are crafted from upcycled materials, while others are purchased through the official Little Free Library organization.
For example, Cub Scout Troop 902 in Frisco, Texas, built and installed a Little Free Library as part of a service project, encouraging young readers in their community to discover the joy of books. Schools, churches, and even businesses have followed suit, creating their own versions to promote literacy and generosity.
A Treasure Hunt for Book Lovers
Visiting a Little Free Library is like going on a mini treasure hunt—you never know what book you’ll find next! Maybe a history book, a self-help title, or a novel from a genre you wouldn't typically explore. Every visit is an opportunity to step into a new story and expand your world.
For kids, it's an especially exciting adventure. The thrill of discovering a book they love (or one they’ve never heard of) encourages curiosity and a lifelong love of reading.
Sharing the Joy: A Small Act of Generosity
Beyond finding great reads, Little Free Libraries inspire kindness and generosity. The “Leave One” aspect of the exchange encourages people to pass along books they’ve enjoyed so that someone else can experience the same joy. It’s a simple way to give back to the community—one book at a time.
If you’ve finished a book and want to share it, consider leaving it in a Little Free Library near you. It may become someone else’s new favorite story!
Where to Find a Little Free Library Near You
Little Free Libraries are popping up in neighborhoods, parks, and community centers everywhere. You can use the official Little Free Library map to find one near you!
Start Your Own Little Free Library
If you love the idea of sharing books and bringing people together, consider starting your own Little Free Library! Whether you build one yourself, work with a community group, or purchase an official kit, it’s a meaningful way to spread literacy and generosity in your neighborhood.
Books have the power to inspire, teach, and connect us. With every book taken and given, Little Free Libraries keep that magic alive.
Little Free Libraries make it easy to spark a love of reading, but the real magic happens when you read with your child. Discover the powerful benefits of reading aloud—how it strengthens bonds, builds confidence, and opens the door to lifelong learning. Click to explore the benefits of READING ALOUD.
