The Free Little Library is a “take a book, return a book” gathering place where neighbors share their favorite literature and stories. Anyone can stop by and select a book for reading and leave another book for someone else to read.

Kids looking in the little library

The first Little Library was built and stocked in Hudson Wisconsin in 2009. Since then, the movement has taken off, and it is estimated that there are more than 15,000 Little Free Libraries in the world. In the spirit of Andrew Carnegie, who helped fund 2,500 libraries in the US, our goal is to increase literacy in our neighborhoods. Little libraries also provide a sense of community as we share skills, creativity and wisdom across generations. Since the books are recycled and reused, the book exchange is an environmentally sound idea as well.

For more information, please see: littlefreelibrary.org

books in the little library

The Crystal Lake Kiwanis Club approved the building of its first little library in January of 2014. Brad Knebel designed and built the ‘box’. Carol Heisler approached the Crystal Lake Park District to partner with the club. They agreed and designated a location near the Nature Center at Veteran’s Acres Park at Route 176 and N. Main Street in Crystal Lake. The Little Library was installed on June 17, 2014. Member Chris Foley and her daughter, Grace, agreed to be the stewards. The Club continues to support the little library and looks forward to many years of reading.

cleaning the little library