How to Create a Pop Up Library

In today's stress-filled environment, having a way to relax and tune out the world for an hour or so can make a huge difference. One way to relax is to cultivate the habit of reading. While you can buy books, purchase e-books, or borrow books from the local public library, one unique experience is taking and giving books at a community exchange. If there is no book exchange in your area, here are ways you can create one.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Deciding on a Library Format

  1. A major priority for school and public libraries is outreach. Events like community days are excellent opportunities to give out books to the public.
    • Select books appropriate to your audience. You can give out children's books, how-tos, bestsellers, or any combination.
    • Note any requests. You will most likely be unable to bring all the books you would like to a pop-up event. But by taking requests you can encourage people to visit the main library to find what they are looking for.
  2. While many public libraries have bookmobiles, sometimes lack of funding means this service must be discontinued. The Public Library division of the American Library Association notes that the outreach service performed by the traditional bookmobile has evolved with the use of bicycles, scooters, and other forms of transportation. [1] In Colombia, South America, there is even a mobile library that travels by burro. [2]
    • Create a business plan. Consider the costs of starting up, and how to sustain the library. What is your service area? What kind of vehicle will you use? If you don't have the answers, you can consult with those who do.
    • Coordinate with your local library. You can create a mobile library independently, or you can create a library in conjunction with your local public library. The library can provide books, information on programming, and help with the legalities involved.
    • Coordinate with local service groups. Service clubs like Rotary and Kiwanis can help with fundraising, organizing, and publicizing your library.
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  3. LittleFreeLibrary.org [3] is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to encourage reading through making books available throughout the community. You may have seen a Little Library box in your neighborhood.
    • Find a location. Little Free Libraries should be located where there is a lot of foot traffic, like a park or public building. Make sure you have permission to place your library in the location you select.
    • Make sure you are compliance with local zoning laws. Contact your local zoning board or make arrangements to speak at a council meetings. Make sure you have your proposal prepared and try to anticipate any questions.
    • Design your library. Little Free Library has kits available for purchase, [4] or your can create your own. People have used unusual containers like old newspaper vending machines to house their library.
    • Develop your collection. Decide what types of book you want to offer. Possibly specialize in children's books, or how-to, or any popular genre.
    • Register your library. You will need to register your library at LittleFreeLibrary.org to use use the name Little Free Library legally and have your library placed on the organization's map.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Finding a Location

  1. Businesses such as laundromats, medical offices, and hair salons provide opportunities for people to read while the wait for an appointment or to complete a task.
    • Get permission from the business owner. Make sure they know how much room will be needed and how the library will be maintained. Let the owner you or a designated person will be there at an agreed-on frequency, like once a week.
    • Provide the necessary materials. You will need a book stand or case to display the books, signage explaining how to use the library, and a supply of books to start out.
    • Maintain the library. Make sure the library is kept neat and free of trash and inappropriate material.
    • Respect the business owner's wishes. If the owner indicates they are no longer able to provide space for the library, remove it promptly. Do your best to leave the area in better shape than you found it.
  2. Many public libraries sponsor mini libraries in the community. Talk with them about creating one.
    • Ask about having them sponsor the library. By working in conjunction with the local library you will be able to use their expertise.
    • Ask about donated books. Libraries often have a backlog of books donated by patrons. Ask about using some of the books to stock a pop-up library.
    • Prepare your plan in advance. Officials will be more receptive to your ideas if you have a viable plan.
    • Speak at a local council meeting. Many local governments have time set aside during council meetings for the public to speak.
  4. Check with local ordinances to make sure you are allowed to do so.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Becoming a Pop-Up Librarian

    • Have a children's story hour at the library. Encourage the children to take a book from the library and bring their favorite book to share.
    • Host a study group for students. Even text books can be exchanged in a pop-up library.
    • Think outside the books. Libraries today are more that places to borrow books. Host a make-and-take for crafts, a jam session for musicians, or anything you might think of.
  2. As people use the library, there will be wear and tear on both the structure and the books.
    • Maintain the collection. There will be books that need to be removed from the collection due to damage or inappropriate content.
    • Maintain the structure. Unfortunately, any structure exposed to the elements will sustain damage through wear or vandalism. Know what to do to keep the library in good repair.
  3. While it may be possible to set up and maintain a pop-up library by yourself, it will be much easier to utilize the time and expertise of volunteers.
  4. Invite local officials and news outlets to a ribbon cutting ceremony. Continue to publicize the library even after it has been established.
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      References

      1. ↑ http://publiclibrariesonline.org/2018/07/the-relevance-of-bookmobiles-and-mobile-libraries-in-2018/
      2. ↑ https://ebookfriendly.com/extraordinary-mobile-libraries/
      3. ↑ https://littlefreelibrary.org/
      4. ↑ https://littlefreelibrary.org/build/

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