What Is It Like to Run a Little Free Library? Here’s How It Became My Favorite Daily Ritual
TL;DR – What You’ll Learn:
How running a Little Free Library became part of my daily routine
Where to source free or low-cost books for your library
Tips for choosing and setting up your book box
Why this project creates unexpected community connection
Y'all, I have to tell you about this unexpected hobby that's brought so much joy to our daily routine. We started a Little Free Library in our neighborhood a while back, and honestly? It's become one of my favorite parts of each day.
I'm talking about those adorable little boxes you've probably seen around town—the ones that look like tiny houses filled with books where you can "take a book, leave a book." What started as a simple community project has turned into this wonderful daily ritual that I didn't see coming.
The Magic of Daily Stewardship
Here's what nobody tells you about running a Little Free Library: it becomes this sweet little moment of connection every single day. I love checking our box each day while I'm on a short walk.
There's something so satisfying about straightening up the books, discovering what new titles have appeared overnight, and adding a book or two from our growing collection. You never know what treasures you'll find or what stories have found new homes since your last visit. It's like Christmas morning, but in miniature and way more frequent.
Building Your Book Collection (It's Easier Than You Think, and Often Free!)
One of the first questions people ask me is: "Where do you get all the books?" I'm so glad you asked, because I've discovered some amazing sources that keep our library well-stocked.
Community magic: I posted on our local Buy Nothing Facebook group asking for book donations, and oh my goodness—the response was incredible! I ended up picking up several boxes of books right here in our town. People are so generous when they know the books are staying in their own neighborhood (and honestly, most folks are thrilled to declutter their bookshelves for a good cause).
Publisher programs (this one's a secret!): Once you have a registered Little Free Library, you can actually sign up for free books directly from publishers. I know, right? This is such an amazing way to get newer titles and keep your collection fresh. It's like having a book fairy godmother.
Your own favorites: Don't forget about books you've already read and loved. There's something special about sharing your favorites with neighbors—it's like passing along a little piece of joy. My kids had an easy time each picking a stack of books from their shelves that they were ready to pass along to other kids, and since I'm not the kind of person who reads a book twice most of the time (too many great books to read in the world, too little time!), the vast majority of books I finish I'm happy to pass along to someone else.
How to Choose the Right Little Free Library Box
You've got several routes here, and honestly, they're all good:
Official Little Free Library boxes: You can buy a pre-made one from the nonprofit itself. These are really well-made and designed to weather all the seasons (which, let's be honest, is important when you're trusting Mother Nature with your book collection).
Amazon route: There are various options available on Amazon if you want something ready-made but maybe with a different style.
DIY spirit: This is where it gets fun! Many folks repurpose old items or build their own custom boxes. We've seen some seriously creative setups—everything from repurposed newspaper boxes and cabinets to elaborate mini-houses that look like they belong in a fairy tale. This Facebook group has tons of examples.
Beyond Books: Adding Those Special Touches
While books are definitely the main event, we've had so much fun adding other little surprises. I'm talking about small items that make people smile—like a small Play-Doh container from a birthday party favor bag that my kid didn't want (you know how that goes), a packet of drink mix that wasn't our favorite flavor, a packet of flower seeds, a dinosaur toy that was found under the couch and is now a few years junior for our kids' age, or some extra pet bandanas from my kid's summer business that she didn't continue.
These little extras add an element of surprise and delight that people just aren't expecting. It's those small touches that turn a simple book exchange into something magical.
Installation: Making It Work for Your Space
We wanted to place our library a few houses down on a green walkway where there's more foot traffic, but we didn't want something permanently installed in case there was a reason we needed to move it.
Our solution ended up being both practical and pretty: we got a big planter pot and a bag of concrete, drilled some drainage holes above the concrete line, and added potting soil and succulents around the base. Now we have this stable, attractive setup that could be moved if needed, plus it's adding some greenery to the area. Win-win!
If you're putting yours on your own property and want something more permanent, there are stands that screw directly into the ground—super straightforward and secure.
Fun Accessories (Because Why Not?)
The Little Free Library world has some delightful accessories you can add. We've seen boxes for dog treats (perfect for neighborhoods with lots of walkers), holders for bookmarks, and even little weather protection add-ons.
We added a counter to track usage (it's a little thing on the door that counts how often the door is opened), and I have to tell you—it's fascinating to see the data! Our box gets visited multiple times throughout the week, and there's something so encouraging about knowing our little library is actually being used and loved.
Why This Hobby Has Stolen My Heart
What surprised me most about this whole experience is how it's strengthened our sense of community connection. We've met neighbors we might never have talked to otherwise, and there's something really special about being part of this informal network of book sharing.
Kids get genuinely excited about finding new stories, adults discover authors they've never read, and everyone seems to appreciate having this little oasis of free literature in their daily walks. It's community building in the most organic, gentle way possible.
Ready to Start Your Own?
If you're thinking about starting a Little Free Library, I honestly can't recommend it highly enough. It's low-maintenance (we're talking just a few minutes a day), brings genuine joy to your community, and gives you the perfect excuse to interact with your neighborhood in such a positive way.
The initial setup takes a bit of planning and maybe a weekend afternoon, but once it's established? It pretty much runs itself with just those few daily minutes of attention. And those few minutes have become the absolute highlight of my day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need permission to set up a Little Free Library in my yard?
In most neighborhoods, no permit is needed, but it's smart to check HOA rules or local ordinances just to be safe.
Q2: How do I get a Little Free Library charter sign or number?
When you register your box at littlefreelibrary.org, they’ll send you an official charter number and signage.
Q3: How do I keep my library stocked with books?
Ask your local Buy Nothing group, thrift stores, or apply for publisher donation programs once you're registered.
Q4: What if someone leaves damaged or inappropriate books?
As the steward, you can curate the collection—feel free to remove anything that doesn’t suit your community (though be careful not to overly censor!).
Thinking about starting your own Little Free Library? It’s one of the most rewarding things we’ve done.
About The Author
Jessica Eastman Stewart is a consultant, workshop facilitator, and podcast guest expert. She teaches busy professionals how to get more organized at home and at work so they can stop feeling worn out and start living a Joyfully Managed Life! Thousands of readers drop everything when her weekly newsletter, The Friday Five, arrives in their inbox. Every Friday, you’ll get FIVE amazing tips to help life feel INSTANTLY more joyful and easy!
