Across Northumberland County there are 20 official Little Free Libraries, and at least a dozen unofficial libraries. They’re located on neighbours lawns, at recreation centres and parks, and even at the start of a nature walk atop an old stump.
The mission of the Little Free Library organization is to provide a library for every community and a book for every reader. The global network of book exchange boxes first began in St. Paul, Minnesota but now they’re well on their way to their goal and can be found in 128 countries worldwide.
The libraries run on the honour system. You don’t need to share a book to take one, but if you have a few extra books you’ve finished reading, Little Free Libraries are open 24/7 and are always hungry for good books. Registered little libraries have a primary caretaker who keep the book exchange clean and inviting. In most cases, it’s the property owner who takes care of a library on their front lawn. However, if you see a book exchange in a park or public space, take a moment to tidy the books and remove any garbage, because its caretaker may not visit as regularly.
Not only does the program keep books in the hands of readers and away from landfills, through Little Free Library book exchanges, millions of books are exchanged each year, profoundly increasing access to books for readers of all ages and backgrounds.
The libraries are also hubs for community, 72% of volunteer stewards have met more neighbours because of their library, and 98% of people say their neighborhood feels like a friendlier place because of their Little Free Library.
So the next time you’re looking for a book, find your closest Little Free Library for your next adventure. Click on the link below to view a map of the recorded Little Free Libraries in Northumberland.
