This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s spring editorial intern Gahnique Bell. Find her on Instagram at @s14rbur81_g4l4xy. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
Growing up, I used to beg my family to take me to the bookstore or the public library every time I finished the books they had gotten me from the last bookstore/library trip. Which usually wasn’t that long ago. My family was usually busy or didn’t have the gas to take me across town for some books. It was only recently that I found out there was such a thing as a little library. A little free library is a neighborhood/ public book exchange that is meant to inspire and encourage readers and strengthen communities. Kids and families would borrow, read, and return the books from the little library just like a public one, or they can simply replace the book they took with a new one. Unlike a public library, there isn’t a set time or date for borrowing a book from the little library, nor is there a limit on the number of books they can take. If there was one posted in my neighborhood, it would’ve definitely saved my family some time, money, and gas to get me some books.
What Is A Little Library?
This movement is a great option for families who may not have the money to buy their child(ren) books, and it is also great for the environment. Using the little library teaches children how to reuse items while they increase the number of books that they collect. I never thought about building my little library, but after researching and learning the benefits of it I would be willing to build my little library for my neighborhood. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to build your very own DIY little library.
Step #1 Find A Location
Choosing a location is one of the most important parts of installing your little library. It can be a bit tricky, and there may be some legal actions you would have to take, especially if you are considering installing the little library on public property. You can try applying for permits, but it may take a while before getting approved. The bigger issues regarding setting up your library are liability and safety, the right of way, upholding the physical maintenance of the library itself, and making it appropriate for general audiences. The biggest issue, however, would just be getting permission from the property owner to install your library away from foot traffic. By keeping your library clean and inviting, you should be good to go!
Little libraries don’t always have to be outside, though! Some libraries are located inside of local coffee shops, bookstores, and other local spots. Some of the best spots to install a little library would be parks, local businesses, public spaces
Step #2 Decorate and Weather Proof the Library
If your little library is going to be set up outside, certain measures need to be taken into consideration. Little libraries will need to be waterproof and weatherproof. so the books won’t become damaged from the inside and prevent readers from using the library.
Some tools you may need to give your little library a good shot on withstanding hard weather is:
To me, decorating and painting the library would be the funniest part of the entire process. The possibilities are endless. Perhaps you have a theme that you want to embody your little library with, or maybe you prefer bright and bold colors that will instantly draw people’s attention. However, you decorate your little library, let your creativity and personality shine through. Adding some accessories like lights, balloons, and even music could add a lot of personality to your little library! Painting over the little library could provide extra protection against strong weather. Most little libraries are made from wood, and over time, wood can rot, build up moisture, and produce mildew and mold.
During the seasons, your little library is bound to go through harsh weather, such as storms and snow. It can be a little difficult to keep the library if you don’t take any steps to protect it. If you still want to have your library accessible during the winter, the best thing to do is to caulk up the seams and cracks. This will prevent water from seeping in and destroying the books. Creating a slanted roof could also help prevent water from leaking into the library when someone opens the door and prevent rain and snow from collecting. Lastly, adding a silicone mat to elevate the books would be great to avoid your books from getting soaked and allow air to flow beneath them to prevent moisture from building up.
Step #3 Install The Library
Some people may think that installing a little library is pretty difficult which can be discouraging to people who genuinely want to do it, but it’s actually pretty simple! All the tools you would need for this simple process are:
- A drill
- Shovel
- Tape measure
- Level
- Post hole digger (not necessary)
- Tamper (not necessary)
All you would have to do is use the shovel (or a post hole digger) to dig a hole that is deep enough for the post to sit at least 3 feet above the ground and wide enough for it to stay in place once it is covered up by dirt. After digging the hole, carefully place the library post into the hole and fill up the hole with dirt. If you want a smooth surface to put the library on, consider using a tamper to flatten the top surface of the post. After you flatten the post, make sure the post is level with a tamper (if you want it to be completely leveled) and add the library on top of it. Screw it in with the drill and voila! You now have your very own little library! But wait, there’s one more thing to add to it.
Step #4 Add The Books!
Now that you found a location for your little library, painted it, and installed it, its time to finally add some books. Take into consideration the age range of the people in your neighborhood. This will determine the type of books you would want to put in your little library. Have variety! Fantasy, Science fiction, Middle grade adventure add it! Add picture books for toddlers, chapter books, and novels that will attract not only children but adults as well! With this little library that you have created, more people in your community will be encouraged to read and share their favorite books with others!
Have you thought about creating your DIY little library? Let us know in the comments below!
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