Tiny libraries taking over

A book-swapping idea that started in the States has gone ‘viral’ with thousands of ‘little free libraries’ popping up all over the world – including New Zealand.

Little free libraries are small, weather-proof cabinets set up on the side of the road – usually without permission from authorities – that passers-by use to trade books. Often sporting the slogan ‘take one out – put one in’, 12,000 free libraries have been built in dozens of countries – though that’s the official count via the website www.littlefreelibrary.org. Thousands more unregistered libraries are believed to have been built, and they’ve started appearing on New Zealand streets.

They’ve became a familiar sight in post-earthquake Christchurch, in particular, with upcycled beer fridges from demolished bars a popular choice of structure with their handy see-through front doors.

Seen a little library in your neighbourhood? Building your own? Send your photo to [email protected]