Causes: Community Improvement & Capacity Building, Education, Libraries

Mission: Little Free Library's mission is to be a catalyst for building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries.

Results: There are more than 125,000 Little Free Libraries around the world, in all 50 states and 100+ countries. Through Little Free Libraries, millions of books are exchanged each year, profoundly increasing access to books for readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Geographic areas served: Neighborhoods across the United States and around the world

Programs: Each year, tens of millions of books are shared in Little Free Library book exchanges worldwide. There are more than 125,000 registered Little Free Libraries around the globe, in all 50 states and 100+ countries—from California to New York and Nigeria to the Netherlands. Through these small book exchanges, big things are happening! Little Free Libraries promote literacy and a love of reading, provide equitable book access, and build a sense of community. Even better, this is an inclusive movement that encourages people of all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic standing to participate. Little Free Library has been honored by the World Literacy Foundation, the National Book Foundation, the Library of Congress, Library Journal, and others. We reach more than 200,000 on our Facebook pages; serve a mailing list of 50,000; and are widely covered in the media, appearing more than 5,000 news stories last year. The Little Free Library nonprofit maintains robust programming to help bring people together, celebrate the joy of reading, and encourage positive community action. Key examples:
• IMPACT LIBRARY PROGRAM – Our Impact Fund places no-cost Little Free Libraries in communities where they can truly make a difference. Recipients have included homeless shelters, schools, and other areas in need of greater book access. The Impact program is made possible by individual donors and partner organizations who share a vision for spreading the joy and power of sharing books. Additional dollars come from Little Free Library’s retail sales and Library registration fees.
• READ IN COLOR – Read in Color is a new initiative bringing diverse books to Little Free Library book-sharing boxes around the world. Read in Color will distribute books that provide perspectives on racism and social justice, celebrate BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other marginalized voices, and incorporate experiences from all identities for all readers. We believe everyone should be able to see themselves in the pages of a book. We also know that books can be a window into experiences that are different from our own. By reading diverse books, we can increase understanding, empathy, and inclusion.
• ACTION BOOK CLUB – In a twist on the traditional book club, the Action Book Club asks the question: “How can books inspire you to make the world a better place?” Participants read books on a particular theme, engage in lively discussions, and then complete a meaningful—and fun—group project to benefit their community. This is reading and social engagement at its best.