Archive: Around Town

A 'Little Free Library' has been installed at Myers Park, on the lake side of the playground.  The Lansing Pathways Committee heard about the organization building these small free-standing libraries which hold a small supply of books and decided to sponsor the construction of one of them.  Kids from the Art in the Park class directed by Robin Schuttenberg and Lee Iannone got involved by decorating it with a bird theme. 

“It is already bringing people together at the park when they stop by to visit the LFL, and I believe it’s building a sense of community in the area”, says Sue Ruoff, a Lansing Pathways member.  "The way the LFLs work is simple.  The sponsors stock the library with a variety of good quality books that they hope will interest the neighborhood and community.  Anyone can stop by and take whatever book they desire.  You can return again and bring books to contribute.  The LFL books are always a gift, never for sale!  It’s a free community book exchange."


The LFL movement was started by Todd Bol of Hudson and Rick Brooks of Madison, WI in 2010, and has grown to include little libraries in most states and dozens of countries.  Bol built the first LFL as a tribute to his late, book-loving mother and installed it in his front yard for his neighbors to enjoy.

Since then the two friends have received requests to build thousands of LFLs through their Little Free Library organization.   Their mission connected with Lansing Pathways members who felt it would bring people together in the area as well as promote the love of reading.

Steve Colt, Lansing Parks & Recreation Director, supported the idea and thought it would be a great addition to Myers Park, for the benefit of the folks who visit the park, boat owners, and campers. 

“I loved the idea of the little libraries when I heard about it”, Ruoff says.  “We hope people will enjoy visiting the Little Free Library, find new interests there, and share the joy of books.”

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