Books Around the Block

Program Guide
 Hello!

The mission of the Little Free Library is to promote literacy and the love of reading by
building free book exchanges worldwide. It is also about sparking a sense of community
around this unique way of sharing. Since 2010, over 16,000 Little Free Libraries have been installed
throughout 65 countries worldwide, as well as every state within the U.S.

This guide has been written to support the needs of people requesting information. It acts as a
resource to educators, community organizers, agencies, organizations, businesses, individuals and
stewards like you. We encourage you to use this guide as you plan for any library in your area. Each
library installed can help expand our shared goal of improving literacy in all ages.

We hope you will continue to join our endeavor and support our mission. Any proceeds earned
through the sale of our libraries or supporting materials help fuel this shared mission. The funds go
toward ongoing concept development, the cost of supplies, the online world map, different program
initiatives, as well as creative and written materials that support our goals.

We would love to hear from you! Send us your photos, share your stories and collaborate with us
whenever you can. Thank you for your continued work to strengthen literacy in your community
as well as for connecting other readers to one another through the use of a Little Free Library. It is
one of the biggest little gifts that you can give.

Sincerely,

Todd Bol Dr. Jean Neuman

Executive Director & Co Founder Former Princiapl Minneapolis Public Schools
Little Free Library CEO Minnesota Instructional Practice
tbol@littlefreelibrary.org

2 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014

Plans for Having a Little Free Library
In a Location Near You

Identify Steward(s) and

an Ongoing Work Group

Locating Your Library

Buying or Building
a model

Finding Resources

Installing & Celebrating

For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit: 3
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary | /littlefreelibrary
 Identifying Stewards

Roles and Responsibilities Anyone can be a Steward!

The primary role of a steward is to care for a Little Free Library so
that it can become and continue to be a vital and engaging resource
for the neighborhood or community.
Stewards are the key local contacts for each Libraryfor users,
donors, the Little Free Library movement and support system. It is
not the stewards responsibility to keep the Library full at all times.
Instead, the goal is to welcome participation, create and maintain a
friendly place in and around the Library, and encourage people of
all ages and backgrounds to share responsibility for it.
Finding a passionate person (s) to act as the
main steward is important for the overall care
of each Little Free Library. We recommend
that there is at least one steward who regularly
checks the Library and its contents. Other suc-
cessful stewards have told us that they actively
engage their neighbors and frequently ask for
help in the care of their library.

We encourage you, as a Little Free Library

Steward to:

Be aware of opportunities to promote reading and liter-

acy. Participate on behalf of your Library whenever you

Make sure your Library is orderly, in good repair, fun

and interesting. Communicate with your neighbors and
others to get advice and share ideas.
Stay up to date on Little Free Library activities, resources
and initiatives through Little Free Librarys website, blog
and social media.
Protect the integrity of the Library itself, its contents
and the overall reputation of the Little Free Library
movement. We are partners with you and will support
Stay in touch with other stewards when possible. you with information and resources!
Be available to speak with interested parties and local Little Free Library stewards are key to
the success of the Little Free Library
media to help positively promote the exciting Little
movement. Without you, Libraries are just
Free Library movement! a cute little structure.
Keep littlefreelibrary.org informed about how things are
going. Use Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter or blog or email Your enthusiasm and participation brings
us. a special asset to your neighborhood. As
individuals exchange books, your Library
can also get people together to talk, share
special stories and spark wonderful ideas.

4 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014

 Create a Work Group
All individuals like to feel needed and
valued. You will get help if you make it easy
for people to give of their time and talent.
Working together to steward a Little Free
Library should be fun. People will join
in and be involved when you hold your
meetings at convenient times and locations.
People will also support that which they
help create even though they may be busy.
Your involvement can also spark people
to get involved. Act as a resource for your
group, neighbors, friends or others who
may be interested.
Remember to honor everyones work by:
having an agenda, taking notes, following
up, encouraging everyone, giving responsi-
bility to individuals within the action plan
and steps.
For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit:
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary |
Meetings: What Can You Do?
Here are some ideas that have worked well for others to get people
to come and join in on a planning meeting.
1. Serve food! If possible, provide breakfast, lunch or
meet during an agreed upon convenient time.
2. Focus on success. Whenever possible, ask people to
share what worked well.
3. Encourage the sharing of ideas and discuss a
problem that could be solved. Make sure you always
let people hear from one another about connections,
contacts, ideas, skills and resources. Put requests
or offers of help early in the agenda.
4. Make sure everyone has a task or role to play. If
the facilitator does it all, group members may not
a task, however small, for each person. Make sure
someone follows up with each person in at least one
way before the next meeting. Outline some action
5. Have regular meeting timesthe same time and
day whether you meet once a month or every
other month. Realize that most of your business
may get done outside the meetings.
6. Start and end on time. Know that smaller meetings
can be just as productive as big meetings.
7. Send or give reminders to people about what they
promised. Emails, calls or postcards can be used.
8. Positive recognition can work wonders. At the meeting,
thank people for their participation and commitment.
5
/littlefreelibrary
Understandings and Assumptions
Stewards are the main caretakers of this specially placed
Library. Those that built or bought it, decorated, sponsored
and or use it will treasure it.

The most successful Little Free Libraries have stewards

who actively engage with others in the community to
nurture and develop their Little Free Library. Another
sign of a successful Library is its constant use where
books come and go and there are repeated visits. We
hope that you continue to be stimulated to interact with
others through the sharing of books. Stewards are the
key to making each Library work.

6 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014

 Locating Your Little Free Library

Your Neighborhoods Little Free Library

Helping people to feel as though this library belongs to them is
important. After all, it is a gift to the community and neighborhood

The Library is its own best advertising. If people walking by can

see it they may stop. If possible, try to have the Library illuminated.
Lighting from a streetlight may be perfect. Install the Library
inside the sidewalk, by your home, not on the boulevard or apron of
the street. It also helps if you can directly view the library from a
residence or business.

Locating Your Library Great location! Check for gas

Many people wonder why government has lines, cables
so many policies, rules and regulations; why and tree roots
it seems to make it so hard to do something which can cause
nice. Stewards and supporters of Little Free problems.
Libraries want to know: is it okay to put a
Library on public property?

Find out whom to talk to and who has au-

thority to assist you with your placement.
Some think they can do whatever they wish
on their own property. Managers of apart-

concerns, so it is good to check with those Placing your Library close to the road Dont forget to get permission
may be a problem with snow plows or to place and dig.
in charge.
permits.

And when the Other Ideas:

Library is installed: Put the Library on
Feel free to plant a wall or fence, or
next to a garden.
some landscaping
around it. Have it be part of a
rest stop or shelter;
Consider adding a or next to a bench
bench so users can that is already there.
sit and read.
Place it inside a
Keep it clean, inside commons area that
and out. many people use.

For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit: 7
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary | /littlefreelibrary
For parks, school districts, municipalities and other governing bodies
Things to think about:
Plan for peoples right of way - both legal
and actual. Examples: bike riders, lawn
mowers, snowplows, walkers. Give them space.
Determine the process for maintenance in
case of damage as well as normal wear and tear.
Frequently review the appropriateness of
books for all (children, youth and adults).
Prepare for proper installation.
Prepare for unexpected taking of all books.
8 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014
1. Find out whose regulations and
rules might apply.
Determining the jurisdiction that is involved such as a park, school
district, business, local agency, helps you know what rules may apply
as you prepare for installing the Library.
Many park systems and municipalities have either purchased
Libraries themselves or supported Library installation on public
land. We have found that some communities are much more worried
about setting precedents that will cost them later on.
a business, school or school district, you may have more success at
long-range implementation of the Little Free Library movement. For
example in school districts, parent associations, reading specialists,
librarians, or curriculum specialists could be key contacts within
the schools.
organization. Finding those who believe in promoting the
uniqueness of the Little Free Library by installing one is important.
Just in case youd like to see how one city parks department han-
dles these matters, heres an example from Madison, Wisconsin:
-
brary is to submit a proposal to the Parks Superintendent. In the
proposal you should be sure to include the following informa-
tion:
1. Description of project in detail
2. Exact location in the park (with a map if possible)
3. Maintenance and upkeep plan
4. Any alterations/impacts to the park if applicable
5. Budget
6. Timeline for implementation
Once the Superintendent receives and reviews the proposal it
may go before the Parks Commission for further review.
2. Making placement easy. Tips for installing your library:
Have your point of installation picked out well ahead of time
making sure to have the ground checked for utility lines such as
gas, electrical or cable.
If your plans for placing a Library dont
Install your Library in a highly visible and well-kept spot to
work because of certain external regula-
tions, consider how you can make it as discourage vandalism.
easy as possible.
Your Library can be installed any time of year. In cold weather
you will have to carefully pour very hot water repeatedly on the
Examples: soil where you plan to dig. The resulting sloppy, muddy mess is
easier to dig than frozen earth.
a. Avoid the entire issue of city, county or
association rules by putting your Library
near public land but not on it. Find someone
who is eager to have a Library on their
property who may be across the street or
nearby to your preferred location to a spot
that is well visited.

charge of enforcing or managing compliance

of the regulations. Ask for advice. Explain
the mission of the Little Library and
how it belongs to everyone. Take a photo
of the spot you would like the Library

you where s/he might know of a better

placement. Ask what you need to do to
comply with any rules.

c. Always be nice. If things arent going

exactly as you would like, ask if there is any
other way your group may be able to locate
a Little Library in the area.

d. Fill out and submit the required

applications or permit forms.
e. If necessary, seek a variance in the local
zoning rules. The Library project deserves
support because it is for everyone!
f. Advocate that the association, co-op,
local town or government board purchase
or build the Library, and you/your group
will work with them to be stewards of it.
Dont forget to have a ribbon cutting party once your library
is installed! Its a great opportunity to spread the word.
If you are installing at a school, a teachers class of students or a
dedicated staff member may make a great steward or key contact.
Having someone advocating for the Libraries inside of the school
system can move the process along much more quickly. In fact, some
schools play the role of organizer. In Minneapolis Public Schools,
an Americorps VISTA volunteer works with the Research and
Development Department to establish Little Free Libraries at school
sites and at the homes of parents/students around the city. This
volunteer works with a variety of parent organizations to increase
parent awareness and engagement. She communicates how being
a Little Free Library steward can be a great way to enhance parent
involvement while supporting literacy.

For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit: 9
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary | /littlefreelibrary
 Buying or Building a Model
There are Original Little Free Libraries for All
Groups. Visit Our Website to See All of the Options

Ready-t0-install Library:
Books Around the Block Purple Pickle Library
More options available on our website.
You install and supply the post or surface. Follow our
complimentary installation instructions available at
the end of this document and on our website.

Excellent for outdoor and indoor use.

Purple Pickle Library

Ready-to-paint Library:
The Basic Library
Arrives ready to paint. We recommend that you select a
high quality outdoor paint.
You install and supply the post or surface. Follow our
complimentary installation instructions available at the
end of this document and on our website.

Make it unique!
Cedar Roof Basic
(The above photo is a painted example of the Cedar Basic.)

$38.45, and the opportunity once you register on our website (www.littlefreelibrary.org/registeryourlibrary)
to be on the world map, showing where each registered Little Free Library is located around the globe.

10 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014

 Ready-to-paint and accessorize:
The Essential
Arrives ready to paint. We recommend that you select a
high quality outdoor paint.
Add your own plexiglass, door closure, hinges, and
accoutrements.
You install and supply the post or surface. Follow our
complimentary installation instructions available at the end of
this document and on our website.

Great for those who want to paint, use their

own hinges, closures, and accessories.
The Essential

Ready-to-assemble:
The KIT for an Amish Shed
Arrives pre-cut and ready to assemble.
Ready to paint and accessorize. We recommend that you
select a high quality outdoor paint.
You install and supply the post or surface. Follow our
complimentary installation instructions available at the end
of this document and on our website.

Great for groups! Takes about two hours to

assemble plus painting and drying time.
Completed Amish Shed Kit

Ready-to-assemble & fast!

The Neighborhood Building Party Kit
Arrives pre-cut, pre-painted & ready to assemble.
Ready to accessorize.
You install and supply the post or surface. Follow our
complimentary installation instructions available at the end
of this document and on our website.

Perfect team building exercise! Share the fun

and satisfaction of building these together.
Neighborhood Building Party Kit

For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit: 11
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary | /littlefreelibrary
 Finding Resources
You can turn to people you
know for help.
People who share your interest in the
missions of promoting literacy and the

action. Many people may help, give or

share in the work such as donating books,
because you personally asked them. People
do not have to belong to a formal group to
give. Knowing you or the goals you are
reaching for such as having a well-stocked

supporting good within the community. Key words to

use when you
You can speak to groups you are ask for support:
Literacy
involved with.
Your neighborhood association, service Reading
club, corner store, faith-based group, Intergener-
giving circle, book club, food co-op, youth ational outreach
or school groups, parents association, Youth
retirement groups are all good places to Engaging
start to look for interest. Citizens
Any of these groups or individuals may have time to give, person-power to provide Access to
and or introductions to initiate with other special groups they know. Sharing or free books
volunteering at any level is welcomed. Perhaps they have a space where neighbors
can come together, a meeting could be held or a place where a Library could be.

Why People Want to Contribute

Through our review of literature, the primary reason that individuals give of their time,
talent, money and general resources is they wish to feel good about playing a positive
role in a cause they believe in. They also give because:

1. They know the children and adults

affected by the issues your Library
addresses. Better yet, they have been asked
to take part by someone they care abouta
child, neighbor, fellow business owner, club
member, or colleague.
2. They know you and believe in what
you are doing. It has been found that
corporate and foundation donors give
to individuals with whom they have a
relationship more than to generalized
requests.

12 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014


Others Who Might Be Interested are People Who-
Care about books, reading, literacy, and learning.
Care about topics related to the mission of Little Free Library.
Are interested in gardening, flowers, or sharing fresh produce.
Are committed to causes such as aging, nature, the power of
giving and animals/pets.
Want to pay tribute or honor someone.
Memorial and Legacy Libraries were developed out of steward
requests and are becoming more popular. Master gardeners
who are also stewards encouraged the development of the Little
Free Seed Library, and build days are more in demand.
HOT Tips:
Money isnt everything. Involvement from individuals is many
times more important than asking for money. When you do ask for
It doesnt take long for contributions of $5, $10 or $25 to add up
in support of books or Libraries. Every little bit helps establish a
sense of ownership. What is really important is for people to refer
to the Little Library as ours rather than it being thought of as just
yours.
Dont forget arts or humanities councils, parks
commissions, school and community foundations or your
public library system. They may have a method of funding a
Library or group of Libraries to be designed, built and or purchased.
Some organizations have held contests for designing a Little Free
Library. Leveraging group collaboration and donations can be
helpful.
asking a business for example, if they would sell you their products
and services at cost or at a discount. This can especially help with
the cost of materials needed for a Library installation.
Thank You!
For believing in the mission of Little Free Library and giving of your time. We invite you to further look at our
funds for books and Little Free Libraries being placed in much needed areas.
For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit:
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary |
For larger locally owned
business contributions:
Local franchises of national chain stores
including food chains, those in malls, or
shopping centers, can usually only donate
very small amounts of merchandise at their
managers discretion. Partnerships have been
made with some managers at these stores
including allowing a Library to be installed
inside the store or outside in a well placed
area.
Community and corporate foundations
require written requests ranging from a
simple letter to more detailed proposals
with goals, objectives and work plans.
Large retail and discount stores:
Walmart, Target and similar big box stores
often set aside money for local programs. The
Home Depot and Lowes stores have national
contribution programs for larger dollar
amounts. (sometimes thousands) Local
stores may contribute products and small
amounts of money, especially if employees
are involved.
Local hardware and grocery
stores, restaurants and other
businesses have much smaller budgets
for community causes and they are asked
many times each year for donations. Yet
they like to play a positive role within the
community where they are located and
get recognition too. They may offer their
business as an ideal location for a Little
Free Library.
Some supermarkets have sales receipt
collection programs that schools and
clubs use to earn cash funds. Food stores
around neighborhoods will often provide
refreshments for events, especially if
you buy a few of their products. Send
a request letter explaining the cause
and how many people will be involved. A
follow-up personal request that is face to
face from someone who has a connection to
the owner or manager, almost always helps.
(Refer to a sample letter in our appendix)
13
/littlefreelibrary
 Installing and Celebrating!

It is time to celebrate your hard efforts. You have located

where you want to place your Library and have installed it.
Congratulations!

We recommend that within a short time of completing the

installation of your Little Free Library that you announce its
arrival. We have a sample letter for you to use or you can simply
inform your neighbors in any creative fashion you like. Some have
used hand made postcards, email blasts or phone calls. The more
personal contact you have the better the response.

Spreading the word!

It is also recommended that, as you are ready to launch your
book exchange that you invite people to come see the Library
and to select or donate a book or two. Other stewards have held
special events such as a book reading or potluck to meet and greet
neighbors. Some have had grand openings where snacks and
refreshments were provided as part of a special ribbon cutting
ceremony. What ever you decide to do, gathering your neighbors,
family and friends around a Library Kick Off, can build a
sense of shared stewarding and partnership. Having individuals
continuously select and take home books to enjoy is a true sign of
the Librarys success, therefore contributing to our shared sense
of purpose.

14 Program Guide | Little Free Library | Updated October 2014

Installation Instructions
Materials
8 - 4 x 4 post
2 - 2 x 6 piece of wood
6 - 2 1/2 lag screws
3 exterior lag screws
3 lag bolts

1. To start, you will need an 8 4 x 4 treated

post. Any kind will work, but cedar tone is our
favorite.
2. Cut the post 5 long.

3. With the remaining piece make side angle

braces. Cut each piece 10 3/4 long and cut 45
angles on the ends.

4. Cut a platform as wide as the Little Free

Library out of the 2 x 6 piece of wood.

5. Mount the angled braces to the 5 post with

3 exterior lag screws and then attach the 2x6
platform using 6 - 2 1/2 lag screws. First, pre-
drill a slightly smaller hole to make it easier
to install the lag screw. Use 3 lag screws to
enhance the holding power. 24 deep

6. Dig a 24 deep hole and install the post.

Make sure to use a level and tamp the dirt hard
with a shovel to secure the post.
45

45

7. Drill 6 holes through the top of the Little

45

45
10

Free Library. The holes need to match up with

10

the post platform. Use the 6 - 2 1/2 lag screws

to attach the platform to the library.
3.
8. You are done! Now take a picture of you and
your friends by your Little Free Library and
register it via our website at
www.littlefreelibrary.org/registeryourlibrary. width of library
This is your direct link to the registration form.

9. Build another Little Free Library. People

always say, you cant just build one!
5.
4.

Go to www.littlefreelibrary.org/builders for help and tips.

For more information on Little Free Library and its programs visit: 15
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary | /littlefreelibrary
 Books Around the Block Program Guide
Little Free Library 2009-2014
www.littlefreelibrary.org | /LittleFreeLibrary | /LtlFreeLibrary | /ltlfreelibrary | /littlefreelibrary