It started as a simple idea, but has become a global
literacy movement. The first Little Free Library
book-sharing box was built in 2009 in Wisconsin. Today
there are more than 100,000 registered Little Free
Libraries (LFL) in all 50 states and 108 countries,
from Argentina to Zambia.
The
Little Free Library nonprofit organization is at the
heart of this phenomenon. The growing network shares a
mission to inspire a love of reading, build community
and provide book access for all.
Bill Tranah, president of the Larsmont Community
Club, built this Little Free Library to mimic the
Larsmont Schoolhouse. It stands in front of the
Larsmont Schoolhouse on Larsmont Road. Anyone
wishing to donate books can drop them off at the
Schoolhouse.
In 2019, it was suggested that the
Larsmont Community Club participate in the Little Free
Library program. All it took was a mention, and
president Bill Tranah’s imagination was off and
running. Before long, he had built the LCC’s own
distinctive version of the Little Free Library. It is
now residing in front of the Little Red Schoolhouse in
the heart of the community.
“It’s an exact (not really) redition of the large
Schoolhouse,” Bill says, with tongue in cheek.
“Actually, it’s painted with the actual paint that’s
on the Schoolhouse and I used the same shingles for
the roof, with metal trim to keep it dry.”
The premise is simple: Take a Book, Leave a Book … and
it’s free. With a small stash of initial books, all
varieties, the Schoolhouse Library is open and ready
to accept donations of books. There’s no charge to
take a book, even if you don’t have one to contribute
right away. (See sidebar for a hint on donating older
books.) Over time, the library’s inventory will
increase.
The Little Free Library organization says that more
than 165 million books have been shared through
registered Little Free Libraries worldwide, profoundly
increasing book access for readers of all ages and
backgrounds. The Larsmont Little Free Library is
registered as #100108.
The Little Free Library organization has received
recognition from the Library of Congress, the National
Book Foundation and others for its dedication to
expanding book access for all. We hope that all will
be able to participate in this program.
Take a Book - Leave A Book
Do you have some old books that you’d like to
donate, but you think they may be “too old,” meaning
they may smell a bit musty or have that older feeling?
We found a way to refresh older books. It involves
isolating them in a box or covered bucket for a few
days along with baking soda, cat litter, newspaper
and/or dryer sheets. It's surprising how they shape
up.
Place a cup
of baking soda or an opened box in a plastic box
or bin with a lid. Put the book in the box with
the baking soda and close the lid. Leave it for
48-72 hours, then check on the book. Repeat until
the odor is gone.