Statistics show that a Little Free Library book-sharing box can make a neighborhood feel more welcoming. Seventy-two percent of people who have Little Free Libraries say they’ve met more neighbors because of it, and ninety-two percent say their neighborhood feels like a friendlier place because of a Little Free Library. But even more important than that sense of community is the access to books a Little Free Library provides.
In its ongoing commitment to community outreach, ARIUM Living, a CARROLL company, is bringing Little Free Libraries to its 90+ properties across the country. Each library will feature a charter sign that says “Proudly donated by ARIUM. Empowering communities through storytelling,” symbolizing CARROLL’s commitment to enhancing communities for both residents and the general public. In May, ARIUM communities throughout the U.S. celebrated this portfolio-wide rollout by hosting ribbon-cutting ceremonies, story times, craft parties, and more. (Pictured above is their Little Free Library at Clear Run by ARIUM in Wilmington, North Carolina.)
The mission of the ARIUM Reads initiative is to make a positive impact on the communities by promoting literacy and encouraging continuous growth through learning:
“ARIUM Reads aims to empower communities through storytelling. We are excited to announce that we will be installing Little Free Libraries across our portfolio to bring more books in the hands of not only our residents, but our neighboring communities as well,” said Kendyl Sainburg, ESG Manager for CARROLL. “The ultimate goal is to improve literacy in our communities, give 24/7 access to books for those who might otherwise not have access, and create a sense of independence and self-worth for readers of all ages.”
Left to right: ARIUM Boca Raton, ARIUM Crosswynde, ARIUM Marina Key, ARIUM Morgan Falls
With headquarters in Atlanta and regional offices in Dallas-Fort Worth, Raleigh, Denver, Tampa, and New York, CARROLL focuses on multifamily communities across nine states. During Black History Month, the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Council donated books written by Toni Morrison and Ralph Ellison to encourage the representation of diverse voices.
The ARIUM Reads initiative is an ongoing part of the company’s legacy, and Little Free Libraries will be installed at both existing properties as well as properties acquired in future transactions.