The Yellowknife Public Library hosted a Little Free Libraries workshop recently with Eric Binion and Simon Taylor, a local architect. Eric built Yellowknife’s very first little free book exchange.
This summary will hopefully inspire you to create your very own in whatever corner of the Northwest Territories you live.
First off, there is a difference between a Little Free Library and an independent book exchange box. Little Free Library is actually a trademarked not-for-profit organization. The presenters encouraged people to register with the organization. There is a small fee but it covers signage and the legal use of the name as well as other benefits outlined on their website (https://littlefreelibrary.org/join/).
Whether you register or not, the idea typically involves a container that holds books and encourages neighbours to take a book and leave a book. Book exchanges support literacy and neighbourliness. They can be as simple or as complex and creative as you like, and are often great conversation starters.
Here are 10 basic steps.
1. Decide on a location. Get permission if you do not own the property. Check into any local bylaws that might affect your plans. Consider areas that lots of people go by, and how you can reduce the impacts of snowdrifts and wind. Since most book exchanges are build on posts, consider whether you can dig a hole where you want to put your structure. What sort of bracing will you need? Will it remain up year round?
2. Create your plan or find a pre-existing one. Make sure to include measurements that can accommodate a variety of book sizes and the height of the box itself. Eye or chest height is best so your book exchangers don’t have to reach or bend too much. You also need to ensure it isn’t top-heavy. Many people design the book exchanges to match their house.
3. Decide on and collect materials. Using scrap materials is encouraged. The main box can be built of plywood. You will need a water resistant roof (an old piece of tin or leftover shingles, for example). Consider the type of door and hinges you want. Plexiglas provides a good view inside. Old cabinet doors could be used, but you might consider the risks of broken glass.
4. Collect tools and paint. Tools you will likely need include nails, screws, paintbrush, box cutter (for Plexiglas), saw, drill, hammer and screwdriver.
5. Build and decorate it. Be creative and provide simple signage to explain what it’s for.
6. Make necessary improvements. Sand away dangerous splinters, plug gaps where snow might drift, and so on.
7. Stock your library. Include books that appeal to a wide variety of people. You might find good books at yard sales and second hand shops.
8. Spread the word. The Yellowknifer newspaper and CBC North did stories on Eric’s book exchange.
9. Monitor. If books aren’t circulating after a couple of weeks, try new material. Watch for inappropriate material (including garbage). Books that circulate frequently are less likely to become damp or mildewed. If moisture is a concern, put the books on runners or a sloped floor.
10. Encourage people to go to their local public library if they cannot find a book they’re looking for.
-- John Mutford, Public Services Librarian, Yellowknife Public Library
