Kwame Alexander is now a Little Free Library steward! The New York Times bestselling author returned to his hometown of Chesapeake, VA, to unveil a Little Free Library book-sharing box in celebration of the tenth anniversary of his groundbreaking novel, The Crossover. We were thrilled to partner with Kwame on this special Little Free Library, which is the first of ten Crossover libraries that Kwame will sponsor.
“In the Crossover book, I never mentioned where it was set. I never said the city. But in my mind, The Crossover was always set in Chesapeake where I grew up,” Kwame said. “I’m excited to unveil and dedicate this Crossover–themed Little Free Library in the spirit of community. I’m celebrating the students, the librarians, and my family.”
Photo by Nataki Alexander-Hewling.
The Little Free Library features original artwork by Dawud Anyabwile, illustrator of The Crossover. All ten libraries will include custom artwork by Anyabwile and graphic novelist Gene Luen Yang. Each library will be installed in a location significant to Kwame’s personal and literary journey. This first installation stands on land purchased and farmed by Kwame’s great-great-grandfather in the aftermath of the Civil War—an especially meaningful site to begin the initiative.
“We are incredibly grateful to Kwame Alexander for using the power of story to inspire a new generation of readers,” said Greig Metzger, executive director of LFL. “This Crossover–themed Little Free Library not only celebrates a decade of literary excellence, but also plants the seeds of literacy and community connection in a place deeply rooted in Kwame’s personal history. We’re honored to partner with him on this meaningful celebration of books, legacy, and belonging.”
Event photos by Nataki Alexander-Hewling.
The unveiling was attended by Chesapeake students and educators, along with community leaders and distinguished guests, including Sheriff Dave Rosado; Dr. E. Curtis Alexander, historian, author, and father of Kwame (pictured in Civil War garb above); and Dr. Wanda Barnard-Bailey, Chesapeake City Manager.
The dedication also marked the official start of the Inaugural Kwame Alexander Youth Games, a multi-day event blending reading and sports, hosted in collaboration with the City of Chesapeake.
Learn more about starting a Little Free Library of your own!