Wisconsinites: Founders of the Little Free Library

The first Little Library

Todd Bol of Hudson, WI started a movement when he constructed the first Little Free Library that resembled a one-room schoolhouse in honor of his mother, a teacher. The idea was simple, he filled the little schoolhouse with books and post the simple instructions, "Take a book. Leave a book." Much like the little penny cups at gas stations.

Todd knew his idea had the potential to spread so he contacted his friend, Rick Brooks, who lives in Madison. Needless to say, he was all in. As an Outreach Program Manager in Continuing Studies for the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he's a great man to have on board.

Their mission is an obtainable one: to foster sense of community, promote literacy, and a love for books. They also have a goal to "build" 2,010 libraries, beating philanthropist Andrew Carnegie who built and endowed 2,009 American public libraries. Right now, they estimate that there are 300-400 in 30+ states and 20+ countries.

Want to build your own? They can be of any shape or size, and can be constructed of new or recycled materials. Their website has building plans to use for free or you can purchase a kit, which start at about $100. Anyone can build, buy, or host a Little Library. But if you register, they'll send you a plaque, a charter number, and put you on their map.


  


Here's the story NBC Nightly News did:

I'm going to ask Hubby to build me a Little Library when he gets home (Tuesday night!). After being gone for three months, he might not have BUILDING me anything on his mind, if you know what I mean :)

Here's the link to the Little Free Library site.

Talk to you soon. Thanks a bunch for stopping by.

Angela