Little Free Library FAQs

A Little Free Library is a free book-sharing box where anyone may take a book or share a book. They function on the honor system. You do not need to share a book in order to take one. If you take a book or two from a little library, try to bring some to share to that same library, or another in your area, when you can. (Tip: use Little Free Library’s mobile app to easily find libraries near you!)

Registered little libraries have a primary caretaker, called a Little Free Library steward. The steward is usually the person who put up the library. The steward takes care of basic maintenance like keeping the library clean and inviting, but it is up to everyone who uses the library to keep it stocked with good books.

Yes, “Little Free Library” is a trademarked term. Little Free Library Ltd first filed for a trademark for the phrase “Little Free Library” on February 21, 2012. It was registered by the US Patent and Trademark Office as a protected mark on October 29, 2013.

Our trademark applies to the full phrase “Little Free Library” as well as variations like “Little Library,” “Little Free Libraries,” and any language that could create confusion. The trademark covers a variety of goods and services. As our organization and offerings evolve and expand, it warrants adding new categories of trademark coverage. Get answers to common questions about our trademark.

No, you do not! If you bought a Little Free Library through our online store, your library is automatically registered. A charter sign is included with your purchase, though it may ship separately. All you need to do is wait for your library and charter sign to arrive and then set up your steward account to add your library’s location to the mobile app and web map.

Yes, absolutely! When you register by purchasing a charter sign, you will receive an email prompting you to set up your steward account within 72 hours. If you are not the steward, forward that email on to the person who will be the steward. Alternatively, you can set up your steward account then choose to transfer the library to the actual steward.

Check our web map and mobile app to see if anyone near you is a steward or supporter, then contact that person for advice. The only official representatives of Little Free Library are employees of the nonprofit organization.

Knock on his or her door or leave a note in the library itself. See if the steward has included his or her name and contact information on the Little Free Library app or web map. Introduce yourself! That’s part of the whole idea.

Yes, anyone may contribute or take books. The more the merrier! If you take a book (or two) from a library, you do not need to return that exact book. However, in order to keep the little library full of good choices for the whole neighborhood, the next time you swing by the library bring a few books to share. Little Free Library book exchanges function on the honor system; everyone contributes to ensure there are always quality books inside. This way, we all win!

Little Free Library is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Click to download Little Free Library’s W-9.

For information on the correct usage of Little Free Library’s logo and a link to download it, visit the Press Resources page of our website. The logo is available in the section titled Little Free Library Logos, Trademarks and Service Marks.

Use the Little Free Library mobile app or web map! If you find a library and it is not registered, please ask the steward to visit our website and register.

There are more than 100,000 registered Little Free Library book-sharing boxes in 108 countries worldwide. Find some in your area using the Little Free Library mobile app and web map.

Yes, Little Free Library is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that builds community, inspires readers, and expands book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led little libraries. To learn more about us and how this worldwide movement got started visit our About page!

Anyone can share books in local Little Free Library book-sharing boxes! Use Little Free Library’s web map or mobile app to find little libraries near you. Then, visit the library of your choice and leave some books inside. It’s that easy! Please be respectful, though, and don’t cram books in a library that’s already full. Speak with the homeowner or business owner where the library is installed if you’re not sure if it’s OK to leave books.

A Little Free Library is a “take a book, return a book” free book exchange. They come in many shapes and sizes, but the most common version is a small wooden box of books. Anyone may take a book or bring a book to share. Little Free Library book exchanges have a unique, personal touch. There is an understanding that real people are sharing their favorite books with their community; little libraries have been called “mini-town squares.”

Use the Little Free Library mobile app or web map! If you find a library and it is not registered, please ask the steward to visit our website and register.

Anyone can share books in local Little Free Library book-sharing boxes! Use Little Free Library’s web map or mobile app to find little libraries near you. Then, visit the library of your choice and leave some books inside. It’s that easy! Please be respectful, though, and don’t cram books in a library that’s already full. Speak with the homeowner or business owner where the library is installed if you’re not sure if it’s OK to leave books.