Taking a book, leaving a book

Choosing a free book in Lethbridge, Alberta. 

Locations for free exchange of books are popping up all over. Friends have been sharing books ever since literacy and books became commonplace and book exchanges are often provided for members of specific groups. 

I have noticed informal book exchanges in Edmonton high-rise apartment buildings, a rural Alberta seniors’ organization, and an Arizona retirement village.

Hardcover section in Edmonton apartment building.

A new form of book exchange started in Wisconsin in 2009 and has been spreading ever since. This is the Little Free Library – a public location where those who stop by can leave books they have read or take those left by others. 

I have seen small free libraries in shopping centres in two Australian cities. Many free libraries are in people’s front yards and they are often constructed of repurposed materials.

The first Little Lethbridge Library. 

Recently in Lethbridge, Alberta, I visited the first Little Lethbridge Library which features a book repository beautifully crafted by clients of the local Ability Resource Centre. Several community organizations are involved in the project including the city library system and more of these micro libraries are planned for Lethbridge.

In Edmonton's Paul Kane Park.

In Edmonton, a project by the Oliver Community League has created 10 such libraries using old newspaper dispensers redecorated by artists and other community members. 

Checking on today's books.

I recently visited the two of Oliver’s little libraries, located in Paul Kane Park and outside the Robertson-Wesley United Church. 

This Little Library stands outside an Edmonton church. 

While literacy promotion is usually a goal of these projects, it is not just about the books. Sharing books can promote conversations and contribute toward community building.

Read more about Little Libraries.

http://www.olivercommunity.com/little_free_library_project_complete

http://lethbridgeherald.com/news/local-news/2015/06/13/little-lethbridge-library-helps-bring-books-to-neighbourhoods/

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-12-03/little-free-library-movement-takes-off-in-melbourne/5936466

http://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/little-library-lends-life-to-centre-lobby/2452154/

http://littlefreelibrary.org/

Visiting the local market

A girl helps at family market stall in Tumbaco, Ecuador.

Whether a farmer's market at home or an outdoor market in a holiday location, it is enjoyable to wander, browse and shop in a more traditional way than the supermarket or the mall. 

Alberta has an extensive system of farmers' markets. 

In Lethbridge I buy Taber corn while my friend selects other veggies.

Among the Alberta farmers selling at the markets are many Hutterite families.

The Hutterite women, men and children all wear distinctive traditional clothing. 





I have also visited markets in other provinces. 

British Columbia's Okanagan Valley has many markets, with a focus on the area's wonderful fruit.

Prince Edward Island

is known for its potatoes, of many varieties.

Most farmers' markets also include the work of local artisans. 

The market usually has plenty to eat on the spot. Here in Ontario's famous St. Jacobs Farmers' Market

You may have to queue. 

Two of my sisters in law enjoy St. Jacobs food. 

When I spent a summer in the Netherlands I shopped at an outdoor market in central Enschede.

While Holland is famous for cheese you can also get plenty of fish, fruit and veggies in the market.

On a visit to Norway you can't miss this fish market in Bergen harbour.




If you are looking for textiles, the Otavalo Market in Ecuador is the place to be. The local people are famed for woven textiles, usually of wool, that are made into clothing, blankets, tablecloths and more.

Otavaleña vendor in traditional clothing sorts her wares.