Build a Little Free Library

If you’re wondering how to build a Little Free Library book box, you’re in the right place! Anyone can build a little library.

You can build a Little Free Library box using one of the kits in our online store or you can start from scratch.

While the most common design is a wooden box on a post, you can design your lending library however you choose! Scroll down for free library plans, blueprints, and installation instructions.

Get our checklist of 10 common library-building mistakes (and how to avoid them)! 

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Little Free Library Plans and Blueprints

We invite you to download and use any of the Little Free Library plans and blueprints below. Looking for installation instructions? Learn how to install a Little Free Library on a wooden post.

How to build the Modern Two Story Little Free Library – plans from Little Free Libraries & Tiny Sheds by Philip Schmidt and published by Quarto Press

How to build the Cedar Roof Basic Little Free Library – plans from Little Free Libraries & Tiny Sheds by Philip Schmidt and published by Quarto Press

How to turn a kitchen cabinet into a Little Free Library – plans from Little Free Libraries & Tiny Sheds by Philip Schmidt and published by Quarto Press

Additional Library Plans and Blueprints

How to Build a Little Free Library Kit – Little Free Library

School Bus Little Free Library – Ask This Old House

[VIDEO] DIY Little Free Library – HGTV

[VIDEO] Turning a cabinet into a Little Free Library – At Home With Ashley

[VIDEO] Red schoolhouse library – The Neighborhood Carpenter

[VIDEO] A tutorial to build a full-size Tardis – Steve Ramsey

Creative, easy ways to build a library on a tight budget â€“ Little Free Library

Little Free Library instructions so simple even I could follow them â€“ James Zimmerman

A modified little library design with a materials list â€“ Hannah Lane-Davies of Kalamazoo Little Free Libraries

Vermont covered bridge library â€“ Alan Baker via Instructables

Blueprints to build 10 unique library designs â€“ Architectural League of New York

The lazy little library â€“ Build Something

Step-by-step instructions to build a unique Little Free Library – Dale Melenberg

Roof Overhang Little Free Library â€“ Boys’ Life

How to build a library with a living roof – DIY Network

How to build a Little Free Library Kit
How to paint a Little Free Library
How to install a Little Free Library

Get the Must-Have Guide for Little Free Library Builders

This is your complete source for Little Free Library designs, including plans for 12 different structures, step-by-step photography and instructions, inspirational examples, and maintenance.

Illustrated throughout with colorful step-by-step photography and a gallery of tiny structures for further inspiration, Little Free Libraries and Tiny Sheds covers every step: planning and design, tools and building techniques, best materials, and 12 complete plans for structures of varying size and aesthetics. In addition, author and professional carpenter Phil Schmidt includes information on proper installation of small structures and common repairs and maintenance for down the road. Special offer! You can save $10 (40% off) on Little Free Libraries and Tiny Sheds when purchased with any charter sign.

Are There Rules About My Library’s Design?

If you build one or more book-sharing boxes, please register by purchasing a charter sign for each one. That way, we can welcome you to the Little Free Library worldwide network and you can legally use the name Little Free Library. There is a one-time cost of about $50 to purchase a charter sign. Click here to purchase a charter sign. You are welcome to list the name of any builders, sponsors, or related organizations on your library.

We have no rules about what your library may or may not look like. However, your city government or Home Owner’s Association may have rules. Be sure you have permission before installing your library.

To protect the Little Free Library name and quality of the libraries themselves, the name Little Free Library and its common variations are trademarked. If you want to use the name Little Free Library, you must have an official charter sign and charter number on your library.

Only libraries with official charter signs and numbers can be photographed and displayed as part of the Little Free Library network. This is the only way we can track, monitor, support, fund, and celebrate your efforts!

Little Free Library has a long history of building book-sharing boxes, and we are glad to share what we’ve learned with you.

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