Something quite pleasant has been taking place in my own area lately. There seems to be a lovely trend where “free libraries” are appearing. These makeshift libraries, which are located in mailboxes or other similar buildings on the street, allow patrons to take books and leave them for other people to read.
The idea is straightforward but endearing. A book is available for free loan; once checked out, it must be returned. You can even leave a handful of your own used books for people to find, if that’s how giving you feel.
The free libraries in my neighborhood are all painted boxes of one kind or another, but I recently discovered something quite remarkable. I learned that a gifted lady from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho named Sharalee Armitage Howard had created a free library out of a 110-year-old dead tree in her front yard.
The concept came to Sharalee, an artist, librarian, and former bookbinder. She made the decision to transform the ancient cottonwood tree stump into a free tree library rather than having it removed and destroyed. A roof was built, the interior of the stump was expertly chiseled out, and the warm space was exquisitely illuminated. This is the cutest free library I have ever seen, I promise!
There is a gold mine of books waiting to be uncovered inside the tree library. It’s a fantastic illustration of ingenuity and camaraderie. In addition to providing bookworms with a charming location to discover new books, it also gives Sharalee’s front lawn an air of mystery. It would be delightful to happen discover this quaint small library while out for a leisurely walk in the neighborhood.
At night, this free tree library is even more charming. The soft glow of the inside lighting makes it even more welcoming when night sets. It’s a place where fantasies are realized and stories come to life.
If you look more closely, you’ll see how much work Sharalee put into all the enchanting details on this artwork. It is a work of art that makes everyone who sees it happy, from the fanciful embellishments to the finely carved shelves.
The free tree library is obviously a perfect fit for the quaint area. It is evidence of the potency of imagination and civic engagement. In addition to offering book access, these free libraries promote community and mutual learning.
I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sharalee for her wonderful creation and to all of the other participants in the free library project. One book at a time, these libraries are having a good effect. If you’d like more information about Little Free Libraries and how to participate.
