Take a book, leave a book — Little Free Library goes up downtown

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What is black and white and”read” all over? The little red, shingled wooden box full of books in Downtown Bangor of course.

Central Street Farmhouse has added a “Little Free Library” to its pocket park and is encouraging area residents to take a book and return the same or different book at a later time. The small barn-styled structure was a hub of excitement recently during a downtown trick or treating event. One family stopped by on bikes, and another preschooler chose a book about being a big sister, before heading out for more candy.

According to the Little Free Library organization, the first official library of its kind started in Madison, Wisconsin in the summer of 2010. Since then, thousands of the small, wooden boxes, often decorated like schoolhouses or barns, have gone up around the country. 

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The idea is simple:  The books are free and patrons are encouraged to borrow or take one they’re interested in, and bring back another to share. 

Little Free Libraries aim to “promote reading for children, literacy for adults and libraries around the world” and help build a sense of community. 

Not in Bangor? Find out if there’s a “Little Free Library” near you by using the interactive map on the organization’s website.

Natalie Feulner

About Natalie Feulner

Natalie Feulner is a journalist and “semi-crunchy” cloth diapering momma to a rambunctious toddler named after a county in California. She drinks too much tea and loves to climb rocks but not at the same time.