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A New LITTLE Schoolhouse is On Site


It started as a simple idea, but has become a global literacy movement. The first Little Free Library book-sharing box was built in 2009 in Wisconsin. Today there are more than 100,000 registered Little Free Libraries (LFL) in all 50 states and 108 countries, from Argentina to Zambia.

Little
                      Library with Bill TranahThe Little Free Library nonprofit organization is at the heart of this phenomenon. The growing network shares a mission to inspire a love of reading, build community and provide book access for all.


Bill Tranah, president of the Larsmont Community Club, built this Little Free Library to mimic the Larsmont Schoolhouse. It stands in front of the Larsmont Schoolhouse on Larsmont Road. Anyone wishing to donate books can drop them off at the Schoolhouse.


Little Library
                    BadgeIn 2019, it was suggested that the Larsmont Community Club participate in the Little Free Library program. All it took was a mention, and president Bill Tranah’s imagination was off and running. Before long, he had built the LCC’s own distinctive version of the Little Free Library. It is now residing in front of the Little Red Schoolhouse in the heart of the community.

“It’s an exact (not really) redition of the large Schoolhouse,” Bill says, with tongue in cheek. “Actually, it’s painted with the actual paint that’s on the Schoolhouse and I used the same shingles for the roof, with metal trim to keep it dry.”

The premise is simple: Take a Book, Leave a Book … and it’s free. With a small stash of initial books, all varieties, the Schoolhouse Library is open and ready to accept donations of books. There’s no charge to take a book, even if you don’t have one to contribute right away. (See sidebar for a hint on donating older books.) Over time, the library’s inventory will increase.

The Little Free Library organization says that more than 165 million books have been shared through registered Little Free Libraries worldwide, profoundly increasing book access for readers of all ages and backgrounds. The Larsmont Little Free Library is registered as #100108.

The Little Free Library organization has received recognition from the Library of Congress, the National Book Foundation and others for its dedication to expanding book access for all. We hope that all will be able to participate in this program.

Take a Book - Leave A Book

Do you have some old books that you’d like to donate, but you think they may be “too old,” meaning they may smell a bit musty or have that older feeling? We found a way to refresh older books. It involves isolating them in a box or covered bucket for a few days along with baking soda, cat litter, newspaper and/or dryer sheets. It's surprising how they shape up.

Place a cup of baking soda or an opened box in a plastic box or bin with a lid. Put the book in the box with the baking soda and close the lid. Leave it for 48-72 hours, then check on the book. Repeat until the odor is gone.
Feedback is appreciated. Email to info@larsmont.org.
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