By Adele Levine
Need a new summer read but can’t make it to the library? Good news: there’s a new option in town!
A new Little Free Library, sponsored by the Becket Athenaeum, has opened in the pavilion at Town Center Park, stocked with books for readers of all ages. The little wooden cabinet is already drawing curious visitors—and it’s just getting started.
The project came together thanks to the generosity of the Route 8 Pub, which donated the cabinet, and the Parks and Recreation Committee, which installed it.
For anyone unfamiliar with the concept, Little Free Libraries are part of a national movement that puts free books in public spaces for neighbors to share. The idea is simple. Take a book or leave a book, no library card required. It runs entirely on the honor system, and it’s open to everyone in the community, year-round.
Ellen Manley, Athenaeum Director, says “the project is one small way to extend our services beyond the walls of the Athenaeum itself. We hope the Little Free Library will make accessing books that much easier for folks in our community—whether you’re looking for a book on a day the library is closed or Town Center Park is somewhere you drive by each day. We figure the more books, in more places, the better.”
Many Little Free Libraries seem to keep themselves well-stocked naturally with the take one and leave one format. In this case, the Athenaeum will keep an eye on the space and refill as needed. Next time you’re at the park, take a peek inside. Your next favorite book might be waiting on the shelf.
