Did you know the Northbrook Public Library has two new locations? No, we didn't construct new library branches in the community—we installed Little Free Libraries!
In the fall of 2016, a team of Library staff, the Teen Advisory Board, and the Friends of the Library worked together to install two Little Free Libraries in Northbrook: one at the North Suburban YMCA (top), and another at the Park District's Wood Oaks Green Park on Sanders Road (bottom). The Little Free Libraries were started by a generous donation to the Library, then decorated by our Teen Advisory board.
A Little Free Library is a free, pop-up book exchange that is open to everyone. Simply visit a Little Free Library, take a book, and return a book.
"Little Free Libraries are often called mini town squares, and are designed to bring people together," said Executive Director Kate Hall.
You can return the same book you borrowed, or you can bring a new book to share with the community. Little Free Libraries operate on the honor system, so it's up to everyone to make sure these miniature libraries are stocked with quality books. Staff visit regularly to bring new items, but you can, too!
There are over 50,000 Little Free Libraries in the United States and in over 70 countries across the world. Little Free Library was recently named one of the winners of the 2017 Top-Rated Nonprofit Award. To learn more about this organization or to find Little Free Libraries near you, visit littlefreelibrary.org.
