Thoughts on the Little Free Library
As a confirmed bibliophile, I am fascinated by the Little Free Library boxes folks put up outside of their homes. This program where you can take and/or leave a book dates back to 2009 and there are now more than 100,000 of these boxes sprinkled across 108 countries.
There’s usually a pretty diverse array of kids’ titles, bestsellers, and curious older Americana selections. I’ve never taken a book for myself from one of these libraries, but I enjoy rooting around in them looking for gems as well as leaving treasures for others.
I recently noticed two Little Free Library boxes in Geneva, Illinois that stand apart from others I’ve seen in that each is a miniature version of the owner’s home. This is an enchanting symbol to display in that this mini-home is pared down to contain a single object of powerful symbolism: the book.
The sanctity of the real home is dynamic: it can be divided up across multiple family members; it can contain internal contradictions of philosophy or practicality; there are usually multiple task-specific spaces; however, and perhaps most importantly, everyone’s home remains off limits to the public. It is a private space.
To create a miniature version of your home that anyone walking down the street can metaphorically enter is an inspiring act of generosity and sends a message that the owner of the Library values some combination of the dissemination of knowledge, the joy of reading, and the fellowship of community.
Thoughts on the Little Free Library
As a confirmed bibliophile, I am fascinated by the Little Free Library boxes folks put up outside of their homes. This program where you can take and/or leave a book dates back to 2009 and there are now more than 100,000 of these boxes sprinkled across 108 countries.
There’s usually a pretty diverse array of kids’ titles, bestsellers, and curious older Americana selections. I’ve never taken a book for myself from one of these libraries, but I enjoy rooting around in them looking for gems as well as leaving treasures for others.
I recently noticed two Little Free Library boxes in Geneva, Illinois that stand apart from others I’ve seen in that each is a miniature version of the owner’s home. This is an enchanting symbol to display in that this mini-home is pared down to contain a single object of powerful symbolism: the book.
The sanctity of the real home is dynamic: it can be divided up across multiple family members; it can contain internal contradictions of philosophy or practicality; there are usually multiple task-specific spaces; however, and perhaps most importantly, everyone’s home remains off limits to the public. It is a private space.
To create a miniature version of your home that anyone walking down the street can metaphorically enter is an inspiring act of generosity and sends a message that the owner of the Library values some combination of the dissemination of knowledge, the joy of reading, and the fellowship of community.