Monday 12 October 2015

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.







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