Hamilton North Public Library invites the public to the unveiling ceremonies for its Little Free Libraries on Thursday, Oct. 19. The mini-libraries are to be located outside the Cicero and Atlanta branches, with celebrations for each at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., respectively.
So why would a library need a little library? Because libraries and the people who work in them are about reading, and they want others to learn to love reading too. They want everyone to have access to books, whether they have a library card or not. Studies, again and again, have shown the significant value of reading for successful learning, mental and emotional stimulation, and even enhanced social skills. Books open new worlds and mini-libraries provide 24/7 access to these worlds to all who open the door of a Little Free Library.
Additionally, Little Free Libraries allow community members to share books they’ve enjoyed with others. Operating on the concept “take a book, leave a book”, the mini “library on a post” allows the exchange of books to all who open its door to knowledge and adventure. Yet leaving a book isn’t required.
Finally, Little Free Libraries are simply cute. To see the newest Little Free Libraries locally, visit HNPL–Cicero at 209 W. Brinton St. at 5 p.m. on Oct. 19 and HNPL–Atlanta, an original Carnegie Library, at 6 p.m. It’s located at 100 S. Walnut St., Atlanta.