A Cupboard of Books: Singing the Praises of Little Free Libraries
In a world increasingly dominated by digital trends and the allure of new releases, a quiet revolution in community and reading continues to unfold through Little Free Libraries. These miniature repositories of literary treasure, accessible to all, offer a unique charm and a refreshing choice to the constant stream of the latest bestsellers.
The movement began in 2009 in Hudson,Wisconsin,when Todd Bol constructed a small,book-filled box and placed it outside his home,intending to share reading material with his neighbors. Bol’s simple act of generosity sparked a global phenomenon. As of today, approximately 200,000 registered Little Free Libraries exist worldwide, sustained by the institution dedicated to preserving his vision, even after his passing in 2018.
At a time marked by division, these libraries stand as a testament to the power of shared resources and common ground. They offer more than just books; they foster a sense of connection and serendipity often missing in modern life.
It’s easy to overlook the simple goodness of these neighborhood book exchanges when the publishing world emphasizes new titles – the latest thrillers, mysteries, or political memoirs. However,Little Free Libraries demonstrate the enduring appeal of “recycled reads.” As Virginia Woolf observed in her 1930 essay collection,Street Haunting,”Second-hand books are wild books,homeless books; they have come together in vast flocks of variegated feather,and have a charm which the domesticated volumes of the libary lack.”
The appeal lies in the stories behind the stories. A recent discovery in a Baton Rouge,Louisiana Little Free Library - a paperback edition of Woolf’s 1915 novel,The Voyage Out – prompted reflection on the book’s previous life. Imagining a past reader enjoying the novel on a warm summer day adds a layer of intimacy and connection to the reading experience.
This sense of community is central to the Little Free Library experience.The anonymous donations create a network of readers, unknowingly sharing their literary passions with others. Beyond community, these libraries offer a delightful element of serendipity. They often seem to present the perfect book to the right reader at precisely the right moment.
For one reader, a long-held intention to explore Woolf’s earlier work was spurred by finding a copy of The Voyage Out within the library’s shelves.Similarly, a desire to delve into the detective mysteries of Alexander McCall Smith was met with the unexpected gift of his novel, The Full Cupboard of Life.Another patron found Randy Pausch and Jeffrey zaslow’s The Last Lecture waiting for them, a timely offering of wisdom.
The joy of a Little Free Library lies in the anticipation of discovery. Each visit holds the promise of a new literary adventure, a new story waiting to be unfolded. As any lifelong reader knows, opening the cabinet door is an invitation to find out what happens next.
