When out on an early morning or late evening stroll, one of the absolute delights we can encounter is coming across a Little Free Library.
As a proud book nerd, it is required that we stop at each one and have a look. From time to time, we have taken a book home with us, and other times we drove around to different local Little Free Libraries to add some books to them.
What we didn’t realize is that there are Little Free Libraries literally across the globe! Here is the information you need to find them, as well as how to become a steward of your own Little Free Library.
This post is a discussion of the Little Free Library program, including how you can become a community partner by being a steward of a registered little free library. We will also show you how you can find a list of your favorite little libraries to visit.
Disclaimer: Affiliate links are included for convenience and ease of reference. If used to make a purchase, they will result in a small commission at no extra cost to the buyer.
Little Free Library Buildings
The little library buildings that house the books are almost more special than the books themselves. We absolutely LOVE all of them. The traditional, the unusual, the quaint, the crazy, the unique and the bookish themed ones.
All of the images of Little Free Library buildings featured in this post were provided to Slowestuff by the owners, and we are using them with permission.
Little Free Library History
This is the Gaussin House LFL #182704.
Little Free Library (LFL) is a nonprofit organization established in 2009 in Hudson, Wisconsin, with a simple yet powerful mission: to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access for all through a global network of Little Free Libraries.
Fueled by the vision of Todd Bol – a book lover who built the first LFL as a tribute to his mother – the organization has witnessed phenomenal growth.
As of today, there is a global network of volunteer-led LFL with over 85,000 registered Little Free Libraries in over 100 countries.
You can use the Little Free Library map section of the app to find little library locations wherever you may travel. From New York City to Saint Paul, Minnesota, you will find free books at your disposal!
Little Free Library Information
Here are some key aspects of this non-profit group:
- Free to Participate: Anyone can become a Little Free Library steward & set up a LFL!
- Global Network: The Little Free Library organization provides a platform for stewards to register their LFLs, making them discoverable by book lovers worldwide through a user-friendly map. Each LFL is assigned a charter number. Here is a link to the little free library map: https://littlefreelibrary.org/map/
- Resources and Support: The organization offers a wealth of resources, including downloadable blueprints, tips for choosing books, promotional materials, and even a Little Free Library app, to assist stewards in establishing and maintaining their LFLs.
Little Free Library Guidelines: The Little Free Library organization doesn’t just help you pick out books, but it will outline its objectives towards community building, as it is their intention to act as community hubs that encourage interaction and a shared love of books & stories.
If you are traveling, or even if you want to find where they are all located in your town, you can find all the Little Free Library locations using the above links as well.
Steps to Set Up Your Own Little Free Library
Little Free Library Planning and Permits:
Research Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any zoning ordinances or permit requirements related to installing a small structure in your area.
Choose Your Design: Little Free Libraries come in all shapes and sizes! You can either build your own using Little Free Library plans & blueprints available from the Little Free Library organization or purchase a pre-built structure. We have some links for this below!
Gather Materials: If building your own LFL, create a list of materials needed based on your chosen design. Consider weather-resistant materials like wood, treated lumber, or PVC for durability.
Building Your Little Free Library (DIY Options):
If you are a handy DIYer, you can make your own custom Little Free Library! Here are some resources to get you started:
Official Little Free Library Blueprints: The website has a dedicated “Build” section with free downloadable blueprints for various Little Free Library designs: https://littlefreelibrary.org/start/build-a-little-free-library/ They offer 12 different plans, ranging from simple to elaborate, all with step-by-step directions and material lists.
Online DIY Tutorials: Numerous websites and online communities offer DIY tutorials with step-by-step instructions and creative LFL designs.
Location, Location, Location!
Like everything involving real estate, the success of your LFL can hinge on a well-chosen location. Consider these factors:
Visibility: Choose a spot with high visibility, preferably with good pedestrian traffic.
Accessibility: Ensure the LFL is easily accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Permission: If setting up the LFL on public property, obtain necessary permits from local authorities. For private property, ensure you have the homeowner’s or landlord’s approval.
Safety: Prioritize safety by choosing a well-lit location, away from potential hazards like busy streets or overgrown foliage.
Maintaining Your Little Free Library
Once you get your amazing library set up, here are some things you can do to be sure it thrives!
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: The goal is to have your LFL be regularly used, so that means some good, honest wear & tear. Be sure to keep an eye on it to check for any damage or repairs needed. Keeping it clean makes it definitely more welcoming to visitors.
Weatherproofing: This is a big one, since your LFL will be out in all the elements. Take steps to weatherproof your LFL, especially if it’s built with wood. Use a sealant on exposed surfaces and ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage.
Book Management: Once you stock it with books, make note of the book selection. Are they disappearing regularly? Do some never seem to move? Are some books being added by others? Hopefully you don’t end up with any damaged books, but its bound to happen. Take out the damaged books and just keep the selection stacked, with as many different types of genres as you can. Children’s books, classics, the latest releases, plus of course your favorite books to recommend!
Promote Your LFL: Once you have your Little Free Library up, don’t be shy about showing her off! Spread the word about your Little Free Library! Social media is a great way to share the news about your LFL location.
Little Free Library Kits & Pre-Made Structures
If you want to purchase a kit for a LFL, here are a few options:
This is the classic kit that started it all!
We love that it comes in blue as well!
Another perfect option.
Here is another wooden style Little Free Library with a slightly different price point.
A cedar version of the Little Free Library.
The popular sharing library!
We can’t get over how much we love this phone booth Little Free Library stand. It also comes in red and white!
How & Why To Start A New Little Free Library
We hope this post sharing the Little Free Library’s story, plus giving you easy to find links for a little free library kit, has inspired you to either build your own particular little library and become a little library steward, or at least walk around your own neighborhood or town & find all the little gems in your city.
If you are looking for more book content, check out our book section of the blog. We have posts for Stephen King Fans, Sarah J. Maas fans, YA books for adults, book reviews and more!
Please also let us know if you have a Little Free Library – share the charter number and any pictures in the comments. We looooove to look at Little Free Libraries!
Happy Reading!
Slowprose, book division of Slowestuff
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