A Little Free Library is a “take a book, return a book” free book exchange, and anyone may take a book or bring a book to share. Little Free Library book exchanges have a unique, personal touch. There is an understanding that real people are sharing their favorite books with their community; little libraries have been called “mini-town squares”!

The NMPL Little Free Library is located on library grounds, at the base of the Flat Playground on the Market Street entrance. The Little Free Library is open 24/7 and is available for the entire community to enjoy. 

The NMPL Little Free Library was made possible through the generous contribution of the Friends of the Library. 

3 BENEFITS OF THE LITTLE FREE LIBRARY

1. Supporting Literacy: Little Free Library book-sharing boxes improve book access and thus help tackle low literacy rates. By providing books all year ’round, they can mitigate the “summer slide” where kids’ reading skills slip. And 24-hour availability makes it possible for kids and working parents to share books at times that are convenient.

2. Demonstrating a Reading Lifestyle: A book-sharing box populated with books for all ages on a variety of subjects will attract patrons from different parts of the community. Participation by such a range of users, from little kids to seniors, shows budding readers the value our culture places on books and encourages good reading habits.

3. Establishing New Avenues of Community Service: Libraries and schools have established Little Free Library book-sharing boxes beyond their properties as a way to engage with their communities. Volunteers, service groups, and students can maintain book supplies for locations where books are few. A Little Free Library program can attract new partnerships with community groups and demonstrate a heightened commitment to the neighborhoods served.