The simple idea of a box with books in it could foster a new boom in the numbers of interested readers. Little libraries encourage community spirit and make books more accessible.
 

You have probably seen little libraries in your area and with the number of libraries in the UK decreasing it was probably a welcome sight. Since 2010 800 libraries have closed, this along with the decreasing use of libraries mark what some fear is a national disinterest in reading however the rise of these little libraries might be the foil to this sentiment.

 

In order to use these libraries you simply need to take one and later replace it with a book of your own (or return the one borrowed) creating an ever changing selection of books that are free for use by the whole community. These little libraries offer an alternative to the traditional library, which may be inaccessible to some. Google trend results for “little library” peaked in 2020, displaying the need for an easier way of reading especially during the coronavirus epidemic.

 

Along with helping foster an encouraging environment for reading, little libraries also offer ways to help strengthen the community in an area through neighbours partaking in the joys of reading together and the trust involved with the concept itself. Some would say that this aspect of little libraries are sorely lacking in communities today.

 

If your local area doesn’t currently have a little library, consider starting one yourself as they are rather uncomplicated to set up and make a massive impact in your local community. There are specific details about how to set one up and find them at the  “little free libraries” website (https://littlefreelibrary.org/).

 

So go out and get involved in your local little libraries.