If you want to start a Little Free Library book exchange, you’re in the right place. We’re excited to have you join the network—now more than 175,000 Little Free Libraries strong! Watch the 30-second video to see how Little Free Libraries work and learn how you can start a little library, too.
We also recommend using the Little Free Library mobile app or web map to find a Little Free Library near you. Stop by and chat with the volunteer steward of that library and ask for their advice as you get started.
Sign up below to get your Free Insider’s Guide To Starting A Little Free Library!
How to Get Started
1. Identify a Location & Steward
First decide where you can legally and safely install the library. The location should also have a lot of foot traffic and be highly visible to anyone nearby. Then identify at least one person to be the steward (steward = caretaker). This person promotes the library and makes sure it is clean and inviting.
2. Get a Library
You can build your own Little Free Library following any design you like; find someone locally to build one for you; or purchase a library through Little Free Library’s online store. Libraries purchased through our online store are automatically registered and come with a charter sign included.
3. Register Your Library
Register by purchasing an official charter sign. If you buy a Little Free Library from our online store, it will automatically come registered with a charter sign included. If you build your own book-sharing box, register it by purchasing a charter sign. After you register, you gain access to a network of benefits just for stewards, such as the option to set up your steward account and list your library on the Little Free Library mobile app and web map.
4. Set Up Your Steward Account
After you purchase your Little Free Library or charter sign, you will receive an email with a link to set up your steward account. Once you have set up your steward account, you have the option to add your library’s location to the world map and manage all of its details in real time. Your library will not appear on the map unless you add it. To map your library, log in to your steward account through the Little Free Library app or steward web portal, fill in your library’s information, and set its Map Status to Mapped.
5. Build Community Support
Get your community involved! Tell your friends, family, and neighbors in person. Use social media to engage your community. Hold a Grand Opening Ceremony and invite your neighbors to kick off the library in style with a ribbon cutting, snacks, and books freely exchanged! Contact the local paper, radio, and TV stations. Send out a press release. The more people who know about your library and support it, the better.
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"I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, `Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.`" -Lewis Carroll
Shop the Mini Shed Little Free Library (pictured here) and more at the link in our bio.
📸: @jonatherrr
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Another year in the books! 📚 As 2024 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the major happenings of the last 12 months. Thank you for your continued support on our journey to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access for all 🥳
Read about a few of our favorite stories from 2024 on our blog at the link in our bio.
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Wishing you peace and joy today and every day! ✨
📸: @therunaway.readers
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It`s looking merry and bright at this Little Free Library 🌟
Learn more about starting a Little Free Library at the link in our bio.
📸: @emmylouwho.reads
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Have your SHELF a joyful holiday from all of us here at Little Free Library! ❄️
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Oh the weather outside is frightful ❄️☔
Shop the Two Story Shed Little Free Library (pictured here) and more at the link in our bio.
📸: @treereads
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Deck the halls! (And the Little Free Library 🎄)
Learn more about starting a Little Free Library at the link in our bio.
📸: @littlelibraryadventures
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Happy Holidays ☃️
Find a Little Free Library near you by downloading our free mobile app at the link in our bio.
📸: @titles_and_treats
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