Little Free Library
As an organization and community that love books, Chicago, and literacy, we couldn’t think of a better initiative than to expand access to those three things through Little Free Libraries.
Little Free Library, a nonprofit based in Minnesota, seeks to expand book access through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Library book-exchange boxes. Little Free Library book-sharing boxes are meant to be accessible to all at all times and offer diverse reading material that represents the diversity of readers.
In true community collaboration, our boxes are built by a teen from the Chicago Parks District’s Lincoln Park Teen Woodshop and painted by a teen artist from Noble Street College Prep. We aim to inspire teens to engage with the literary community, as well as give creative teens the opportunity to showcase their work publicly and build their portfolios.
In summer 2026, we launched our first Little Free Library in Gage Park and are currently fundraising for additional boxes.
Our Little Free Library initiative is managed by our Special Projects Committee, a volunteer-led cohort.
The Little Free Library is perfect for:
Book lovers who have gently used books to donate
Anyone who wants to visit a new-to-them neighborhood for a cause
Want to support Read & Run Chicago’s Little Free Libraries?
From donating art supplies to gently-used books, every and any contribution you can make helps!
Learn more
