Little Free Libraries Have a Unique Neighborhood Goal

 


Little Free Libraries are a global phenomenon. The small, front‐yard book exchanges number more than 175,000 worldwide in over 100 countries — from Iceland to Tasmania to Pakistan. 

There is now a new and official Little Free Library at 441 N Bailey Ave., in Republic, Mo.

That address is also known as Owen Park Library. It is a high-traffic area with walkers and families visiting regularly.

Cassi and Thomas Wilder, along with their children Oliver and Penelope, sponsor this new Little Free Library. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony of this box on Nov. 11, 2023, Cassi shared a few words with attendees.

"I would like to extend a special recognition to The Republic Parks and Recreation Department and The University of Missouri Extension, especially David Burton, for their significant contributions in establishing the Owen Park Little Free Library. This resource is a free and inclusive service available 24/7 to all community members. Visitors are welcome to either borrow or donate books to the collection. Moving forward, I plan to organize events catered to children at the park, such as book readings, arts and crafts, and other enjoyable pastimes, weather permitting. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any thoughts or ideas. My family and I are responsible for managing the Owen Park Little Free Library and are available via email to answer any questions. Promoting Little Free Libraries is essential as we are currently facing a literacy crisis. Only some have access to books or local libraries, and many children go to bed without a bedtime story. I aim to change that, one Little Free Library at a time."

This new free library has its own Facebook page and email address: owenparklibrary@gmail.com.

Little Free Library (LFL) is a nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota. The organization's mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries. More than 300 million books have been shared through registered Little Free Libraries, profoundly increasing book access for readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Little Free Library book-sharing boxes are placed in front yards, housing projects, community centers, schools, parks, gardens, and other easily accessible locations. The Libraries are built to withstand weather and hold 20-100 books. 

Only registered Little Free Library book exchanges may use the title “Little Free Library”; if a book exchange is not registered, it is simply called a book exchange. Using the term Little Libraries or just Libraries when referring to any registered Little Free Library book exchange is permissible.

LFL has attracted high-profile collaborators including Amerigroup, Disney, Foresters Financial, Good Morning America, Goodreads, Marvel, Scotiabank, and Sony. LFL has been awarded the World Literacy Award and Guidestar’s respected Platinum Seal of Transparency. The Library of Congress, the National Book Foundation, the Women’s National Book Association, and the American Library Association have also honored the Little Free Library nonprofit organization. Reader’s Digest named them one of the “50 Surprising Things We Love about America.” 

To learn more, or to download plans to build one, please visit littlefreelibrary.org. 

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