It’s probably too soon to do a follow-up on the Little Free Library. But, I get obsessive about these sort of things – it’s like my baby – and I drive by it frequently to see how it’s doing.
Here’s the post that explains it all: Original post.
The initial excitement of the new library by the park wore off after two weeks. At first, I’d get a thrill seeing all new titles in the box. It’s working!
I’d scare my husband as we drove down a distant street, my screech of joy as my eagle eye caught some people peeking into the library. It’s working!
My faith in humanity is strong.
But, then I found the box empty, the window broken out. What the heck, humanity?
Anyway. I refilled it and hoped the books would stay dry (they do).
Then this weekend, it was nearly empty again, three books and a ninja turtle. So I refilled it. And taped up a little note about how it’s supposed to work.
The windowless Little Free Library carries on.
Do I just need to let this project go? Let it truly become the community’s and not keep restocking it?
Another interesting development I didn’t expect: I have Little Free Library envy. There’s another one in my neighborhood and it has a way better selection. I’m talking Oprah Book Club selections, folks. Hardcovers, cute kids books, two rows of books! A thing of beauty.
The point of this post? If you have some books collecting dust on your shelves, I have a fabulous place for you to take them: Metcalfe Park located between Dundee and Benson. Thanks!
Alissa Apel
Friday 1st of August 2014
I did put a hand full of books in there 2 weekends ago. It was full when I went. There were a lot of adult books on the bottom. I had to set mine up on the top. The ones I stashed in there were kid's books. I get a little obsessive with books. I was an illustration major in college. Then 1 project I teach is for a children's book. I have so many...
Kim
Friday 1st of August 2014
I was wondering if you had dropped off a big batch of books! I took a picture of the library last week because it was so full. Made my heart swell.
Erin
Saturday 12th of July 2014
Hi neighbor! I have the other Alpha-Bits LFL in town. :) Mine is at my house in Benson. I've seen yours though my kids did not let me get close enough to actually browse, too busy making me go down the slide! Haha. People were pretty shy about using mine at first since it is right in front of my house (well, by the sidewalk), but now it gets pretty heavy use and I love it. Many more takers than leavers though... I'm always running out of children's books!
Kim
Sunday 13th of July 2014
Hi back at you, fellow Alpha-Bits LFLer! Have you noticed a ton pop up since our libraries went up? I don't know if it's because I'm paying attention or it's a real trend, but I'm seeing a lot between Benson and Dundee. It's encouraging. I'm glad to hear yours is doing well!
Heather
Tuesday 24th of June 2014
I love the Little Free Libraries! Making one of my own is already on my list for the fall. I may be a little obsessed already.
Kim
Tuesday 24th of June 2014
Good! Be prepared to be even more obsessed once you get your own up and running! It become like another family member that you want to see grow and succeed. Good luck!
Alissa Apel
Thursday 19th of June 2014
I just ran across this on FB: http://www.kmbc.com/news/leawood-shuts-down-boys-little-free-library/26552394?utm_campaign=KMBC&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=trueAnthem%3A%20Trending%20Content#!0Za9K A kid's Little Free Library got shut down because it wasn't up to code for the houses there. How sad! I think I'd look for a park, or a community center that would house his Little Free Library.
Kim
Thursday 19th of June 2014
I'd heard about that! I'm surprised that issue came up, it's basically an oversized birdhouse, which can't possibly be illegal. It does make me relieved that I checked with the parks department before setting mine up.
Alissa Apel
Tuesday 17th of June 2014
You're much more dedicated than I. They asked me to make a Little Free Library early spring. I was so busy with school, and finals that I couldn't see myself getting it done. That's when my husband was going to start the Flock House Project. Just too much going on at once. It sounded fun though! I hope your note helps. I'll have to pay your library a visit when I get back from vacay. I have some book, I always do.
Kim
Wednesday 18th of June 2014
More dedicated or just crazier. :)