You’ve already set up your steward account—now you’re ready to set up your Little Free Library book exchange! Follow these easy steps to pick a good location, weatherproof your library, install it, and add some fun accessories! You’ll be sharing books in no time.
Choose a Location
Put your library where it’s easy to see and access! Aim for a spot that is well lit and accessible to those with limited mobility. Consider installing it low enough for kids to open the door. Click below to get more tips.
Check out these FAQs about library placement
- Read our detailed help doc on where to place your Little Free Library.
- Are there any liability issues with starting a Little Free Library?
- How do I get my homeowner’s association to allow a Little Free Library?
- Can I install a Little Free Library on public property?
- How to make your Little Free Library accessible.
Weatherproof Your Library
Make sure you paint or stain your Little Free Library book exchange before you place it outdoors! Raw wood exposed to rain or snow will deteriorate over time. Don’t forget to protect your library post, too.
Check out these FAQs on weatherproofing your library
- Follow our tutorial on how to paint your library.
- If your area gets a lot of snow, learn how to winterize your library.
- Review our recommended maintenance for a wooden library.
- Put caulk on the seams of the library if moisture is becoming an issue.
- A dryer sheet stuck inside the library can act as a deterrent to many pests (and keep your books smelling laundry fresh)!
- A Vaseline ring around the library post can work to keep ants out—they can’t climb through the Vaseline.
- Use foam or plastic weatherstripping around the door to protect against moisture.
Install Your Library
Here are our instructions to install a library on a wooden post. Consider purchasing a library post from our online store to make installation extra easy!
Get more tips on how and where to install your library
- Check out our video that shows how to install a Little Free Library on a wooden post.
- Our mobile library installation legs are perfect for indoor libraries!
- Consider installing your library in a large flower pot or barrel. This way it’s not permanently set in the ground.
Get Free Resource Downloads
Log in to your steward account to get tons of cute downloadable resources! Printable book labels, bookmarks, stickers, signs, and more are all there! Log in to your account to download them.
Follow Us on Instagram for Little Free Library Ideas & Designs
“All grown-ups were once children… but only few of them remember it.” -Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince
See other cool library designs by signing up for our email newsletter at the link in our bio.
📸: @rides.and.reads
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Reading in a winter wonderland! ❄️
Shop the Mini Shed Little Free Library (pictured here) and more at the link in our bio.
📸: @ataleoftwolitties
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It`s #GivingTuesday! In times like these—when our world feels uncertain and divided—access to books, stories, and shared understanding matters more than ever. Little Free Library is helping bridge those divides, one neighborhood book exchange at a time. Your tax-deductible gift supports programs that bring books and book-sharing boxes to communities that need them the most. Please give a gift today (link in bio). Thank you!
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December book giveaways are open! 📚
Enter at the link in our bio.
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What`s the last book you found in a Little Free Library?
Keep track of the libraries you visit and books you take and share using our free mobile app! Download at the link in our bio.
📸: @littlefreelove
🏠: #106984
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🎁BLACK FRIDAY DEALS!🎁 Save 15% (over $100) when you bundle any library and post together, or 10% sitewide!
Offers end December 3, or while supplies last. No promo code needed. Shop at the link in our bio.
Today, and every day, we are grateful for this community! We`re moved by each of you who are dedicated to building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access.
Learn more about the Little Free Library nonprofit organization by signing up for our monthly email newsletter at the link in our bio. We share organization news, cool library designs, and exclusive promotions for our online store!
📸: @littlefreelibraryat237randolph
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Thankful for books…and pie! 🦃🥧
Find a Little Free Library near you by downloading our free mobile app at the link in our bio.
📸: @hollylanelfl
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