Presenting the cutest Little Free Library ever! Along with Cūbles, we are delighted to introduce the Little Free Library Cūble, a 3D paperboard constructable book-sharing box standing 4-¼ inches tall. The miniature library model features an illustrated grassy base, wood post, and iconic LFL charter sign. It also holds three buildable books that you can put in or take out of the diminutive structure.
Smaller than a soda can, the DIY Little Free Library Cūble is created by popping pieces out of flat sheets of sturdy paperboard, then folding and connecting them in a unique, simple process. No other supplies, like glue or scissors, are needed for this papercraft, which is appropriate for anyone aged six and up. It would look as cute on a book-lover’s office desk as it would on a child’s bedroom dresser.
The collaboration came about in a serendipitous way: We were on a Zoom call with the publisher Scholastic when an LFL staff member spotted a small Dog Man figure on a bookshelf in the background and learned it was a “Cūble.” We investigated and discovered the Cūbles company—led by inventor and founder Joel Morris—was based in Arden Hills, Minnesota, not far from our St. Paul office. After meeting, Joel, we clearly saw our shared values of more engagement and less screen time. A partnership was born.
“We know that families love to use a Little Free Library to discover and share books with their children,” said our Executive Director Greig Metzger. “A new read entertains, stretches imaginations, and is just a good time. That is why we are so excited to be working with Joel’s team to create an engaging, child-friendly activity like the Little Free Library Cūble. Families can have fun together, building their own ‘micro’ Little Free Library.”
The Little Free Library Cūble is ideal for all ages, with these guidelines offered: Ages 6-10 will likely need help with their first Cūble; ages 10-12 may need help with their first Cūble, and ages 12 and up will likely not require help.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Little Free Library as we share a passion for hands-on activities that spark creativity, reduce screen time, and encourage thoughtfulness,” said Morris. “Two great Minnesota organizations fostering thoughtful engagement and building stronger communities through giving back and inspiring connection.”
We are humbled to have a long history of collaboration with publishers, corporations, small businesses, Indigenous communities, and nonprofits.
“Strong organizational relationships are foundational to our mission,” said Metzger. “The opportunity to work together in that mission with a local company like Cūbles makes our efforts even more rewarding.”
The Little Free Library Cūble is available in LFL’s online store, and construction tutorial videos are posted on “The Cūbles Way” site.