08/08/2024
I’ve gone back and forth regarding whether or not I wanted to post this as I believe, for the most part, people are complying with the “rules” implied with a Little Free Library. However, I decided to move forward to clear the air as I know the concept of a Little Free Library is unique and maybe I haven’t made my mission very clear.
I would like to start by clarifying my intentions as it relates to our library - my biggest goal is to hopefully spark an interest for someone (hopefully multiple people) who hasn’t had an interest or knack for reading in the past.
My next goal with our library is to provide the community with access to books. We have such a prime location being on the main road in town. It would be a disservice for me NOT to take full advantage of the situation (at least that’s what I tell myself 😉)
In order for the community as a whole to have access to a plethora of books, titles, and genres, there needs to be a proactive and efficient pattern of taking and exchanging.
While I have absolutely no issue with funding a library with the intentions of several people having access to the latest & greatest books, there unfortunately appears to be an issue with the flow & process in terms of returning and/or exchanging books. I have donated several of my most popular titles based on the requests of several of my friends and followers. However, it appears I seem to be funding a different mission for one or two people.
I’d like to think that maybe the books are being taken to be read and shared outside of the library. However, I also have to acknowledge the fact that there is a profit to be made by taking and selling new and gently used books.
This endeavor has never been nor will it ever be about money, finances, or profit of any kind for me and my family. However, I would like to take a moment to remind the community that this mission is fully funded by my own personal bank account (and lots of wonderful friends, family, and even strangers who have donated to the cause 🥹) The library itself was several hundred dollars & there is a fee to register the library with the Little Free Library organization. It also costs money to buy “inventory” and ensure our library stays constantly full. The source of books are not only those I have read and didn’t like enough to keep.. I have made several book orders solely for the sake of keeping the library stocked with newly published books.
This does NOT mean that you cannot take a book if you do not have a book to exchange in its place. Nor does it mean you cannot keep a title you’ve fallen in love with, but it is most conducive for the process if you return the book to be utilized by someone else once you are done (similar to a public library).
There are not rules per se as it pertains to what books can be shared. However, common courtesy should be used when making an exchange. Taking a brand new series and exchanging them for worn down, older titles isn’t a fair trade and often results in a stagnation of utilization due to lack of interest in the titles available. If you are interested in taking a newer read but do not have an equivalent trade, please return the book when you are done.
I’d like to end this rant by thanking everyone in the community that has contributed and participated in our LFL experience. It has truly been an honor to hear/see the positive feedback. I am always open to recommendations or input as it pertains to the process. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns.
