Little Free Library

Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Their mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Library book-exchange boxes.

Their vision is a Little Free Library in every community and a book for every reader. They believe all people are empowered when the opportunity to discover a personally relevant book to read is not limited by time, space, or privilege.

How do they achieve their mission and vision?

1. Providing 24/7 book access.
   Little Free Library book-sharing boxes are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and are freely accessible to all— removing barriers to book access.
2. Fostering new Little Free Libraries.
   Little Free Library (LFL) equips, educates, and guides volunteer stewards to establish Little Free Libraries in their communities.
3. Granting Little Free Libraries to high-need areas.
   Through our programs, LFL grants no-cost Little Free Libraries full of books to underserved urban, suburban, rural, and Indigenous communities.
4. Championing diverse books.
   Through our Read in Color program, LFL makes books available representing BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other diverse voices to promote understanding, empathy, and inclusion.
5. Working with key community partners.
   LFL collaborates with schools, public libraries, civic organizations, businesses, and other groups to bring Little Free Libraries to their communities.

Why Does Book Access Matter?

We are facing a growing literacy crisis. Today in the United States, more than 30 million adults cannot read or write above a third-grade level. Studies have repeatedly shown that books in the hands of children have a meaningful impact on improving literacy. The more books in or near the home, the more likely a child will learn and love to read. 61% of U.S. children living at or below the poverty line have no books at home.

When children have access to a Little Free Library, they spend more time reading.

For more than a decade, the Little Free Library nonprofit organization has helped readers around the world connect through more than 200,000 book-sharing boxes across 128 countries—sharing over 500 million books.

Access the Little Free Library map at littlefreelibrary.org or download the Little Free Library mobile app to find Little Free Libraries near you!