I’ve always loved the idea of Little Free Libraries: tiny neighborhood book exchanges filled with stories and surprises. I even have my own Snoopy-themed Little Free Library. So I’m always watching for clever designs, decorations, names, and ideas I might borrow. During my own Little Free Library hunts, I’ve documented dozens of creative book boxes. From colorful and whimsical to simple and surprisingly brilliant. (And wine fridges. More wine fridges than you might imagine.) Here are some of my favorite Little Free Library ideas I’ve found in the wild.
A Little Free Library Close to Home
I should probably start with my own Snoopy-themed library. I’m rather proud of it. Photo taken at the “grand opening” (before it was filled with books!)
Double the Books, Double the Fun
Some designs make extra room for books by adding a second compartment.
A Harry Potter Little Free Library
Some Little Free Libraries have a theme, and this one doesn’t exactly hide its allegiance to Hogwarts. They started with a plain old design and added STICKERS to the box! Looks like they shellacked it or put some sort of protective coating over the stickers. Otherwise, I don’t think they would last through a South Dakota winter.
A Church-Shaped Little Free Library
This little library takes the miniature-building idea seriously. Its peaked roof, double glass doors, and cross make it look like a tiny church. Except it’s not very tiny. It’s huge. And a tad creepy? Needs a new paint job.
A Little Something for the Dogs
Books for humans, treats for dogs. This is the sort of community service I can get behind. Dogs agree.
A Doghouse Library for Theo
Not every dog-themed library hands out treats. Theo’s Library looks like a doghouse, right down to the bone-shaped nameplate and paw-print decoration.
Bright Colors and Big Personality
A little paint can do a lot of heavy lifting. These libraries are hard to miss, and that’s part of the point: people need to notice a book exchange before they can use it.
Little Libraries That Look Like Little Houses
OK, most Little Free Libraries already look like houses. But some go the extra mile to resemble a cozy home (for the books.)
Creative Shapes and Clever Use of Space
Not every Little Free Library needs to look like a box on a pole. Tall and narrow designs, tiny versions, and unusual mounting choices can all work, depending on the space you have.
Sometimes One Small Detail Makes the Design
You don’t necessarily need a brand-new library to make an existing one memorable. A little decorative hardware, like the dragonfly on this door, gives a straightforward design a bit of character.
You Can Buy a Ready-Made Little Free Library, Too
Not everyone has the tools, woodworking skills, or desire to spend a weekend constructing a tiny house for books. I’ve spotted ready-made book-sharing boxes on my library hunts, including this red-roofed plastic model.
See the ready-made book-sharing library on Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
And if you’d rather purchase a library directly from the nonprofit, check out the official Little Free Library shop. Be aware that buying a book-sharing box from another retailer doesn’t necessarily include official Little Free Library registration.
More Little Free Library Adventures
I’ve also filmed many of my Little Free Library stops. It’s a thing. I even have a jingle. See an example below. You can also explore my other Little Free Library articles, including my posts about finding libraries near you and the history and etiquette behind the idea.
What’s the most unusual Little Free Library you’ve ever seen? Better yet, what would you put in one of your own?
