A Little Free Library has been officially opened in Wollombi in New South Wales, after a collaborative effort by Cessnock City Library and community members to bring the project to life.
Cessnock City Council embraced the project after the Wollombi School Community Education Trust (WSCET) approached library staff with the idea of creating a place where people could share free books and their love of reading.
The Cessnock Men’s Shed was keen to be involved in the project and Peter Torenbeek oversaw the generous donation of time and woodworking talent to make sure the little library had a sturdy place to call home.
The Little Library is stocked with a variety of books from Cessnock City Library – many of which are near new donations.
Cessnock Library Services Co-ordinator, Rose-marie Walters said that the Little Free Library movement is an international phenomenon that now operates in over 70 countries and shares over 16 million books per annum.
“Through Little Free Libraries, millions of books are exchanged each year on the simple principle of take a book and return a book,” she said.
Cessnock City Mayor Bob Pynsent said the Little Free Library is a place where you can recycle books and also grab a book you like.
“Instead of a book collecting dust on a shelf you can drop it off at the Wollombi Little Library and pick up a new read to enjoy.
“These pop up libraries are becoming increasingly popular, as it is a simple way of encouraging locals to read, sparking creativity and connecting community.”
WSCET President Frank Ganino explained the library operates on an honesty system, where readers can borrow, exchange or even keep books.
