If you’ve ever wandered through a Columbus neighborhood and spotted a charming wooden box filled with books sitting at the edge of someone’s yard, congrats — you’ve encountered a Little Free Library in the wild. These tiny literary outposts have become a beloved sight across the city, creating community through free book swaps and encouraging neighbors to read, share, and connect.
Feeling inspired to build one of your own? Here’s everything you need to know to launch a Little Free Library right here in Columbus.
Step 1: Get Permission And Pick Your Spot
First things first — you’ll need a place to put it. If you own your home or have a friendly landlord, great! Popular locations include front yards, near the sidewalk, or alongside driveways with good foot traffic. Want to place one in a park, school, or public space? You’ll need written approval from the property owner, HOA, or the City of Columbus first.
Step 2: Build (Or Buy) Your Library Box
There are two routes here: craft one yourself from scratch or buy a pre-built library box from littlefreelibrary.org. DIY builders often upcycle old cabinets, birdhouses, or create custom designs, just make sure it’s waterproof, sturdy, about the size of a mailbox or bigger, and has a see-through door so passersby can peek inside.
Personalize it with bright paint or a theme (kids’ library, genre box, sci-fi only, go wild).
Step 3: Register With Little Free Library
Once your box is ready to go, register it officially at littlefreelibrary.org. Registration costs $40–$89 and assigns your library a unique charter number. You’ll receive a metal plaque and your library will appear on the Little Free Library world map, so people near and far can find it.
Step 4: Stock It With Books
Time to fill those shelves. Start with 15–20 books from your own collection, thrift stores, yard sales, or Half Price Books. Include a mix of genres — fiction, kids’ books, memoirs, cookbooks, you name it. Add a note encouraging people to take a book, leave a book.
Hot tip: check in regularly to restock, tidy, and make sure you still have a variety.
Step 5: Celebrate And Spread The Word
Once it’s up, let the neighborhood know! Post photos on social media, invite friends and neighbors to contribute books, and consider hosting a mini grand opening. Some library owners even decorate for the seasons or partner with local schools and Little Bookworm clubs.
Bonus: Add Your Personal Touch
Want to go above and beyond? Add a journal so visitors can write notes, include bookmarks, seed packets, or coloring pages for kids. A community chalkboard is another fun way for neighbors to connect.
Ready to join Columbus’s ever-growing network of Little Free Libraries? With a weekend of effort and a stack of books you’re willing to part with, you can create something truly magical and give passersby one more reason to slow down, smile, and flip through the pages.
