The Little Free Library (LFL) stands as the largest book-sharing initiative in the world. You may have spotted these charming, weatherproof boxes filled with books in your neighborhood or local parks. They invite community members to take, read, return, or share books, fostering a sense of connection through storytelling.
Recognized by the Library of Congress and the National Book Foundation for its role in enhancing book accessibility, LFL boasts over 100,000 registered boxes across 50 states and 108 countries. With more than 165 million books exchanged, the nonprofit organization is set to expand its impact with a new program called Read in Color, aimed at promoting inclusive and diverse literature for readers of all backgrounds.
This initiative emerged in the wake of George Floyd’s tragic death, fueled by ongoing police violence against Black individuals, a heightened awareness of systemic racism, and threats to LGBTQIA+ rights. LFL is committed to providing insights into racism and social justice while uplifting voices from marginalized communities.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I remember the first time I encountered LGBTQ representation in literature. It felt shocking and conflicted with my internal struggles. As a young person, I felt different and often ashamed. The lack of visible role models and supportive narratives left me feeling isolated. Progress has been made, but many queer youth still feel undervalued, and adults often lack the resources to support them. To bridge this gap, Little Free Library is distributing free diverse books that highlight LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC experiences while addressing anti-racism and inclusivity.
The journey begins with signing the Read in Color Pledge, demonstrating a commitment to reading and sharing diverse literature. Registered LFL locations can apply for free books celebrating Latinx, Muslim, Black, Indigenous, Asian, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. The program is initially launching in the Twin Cities, where 5,000 books will be distributed to communities facing significant challenges, particularly those impacted by the pandemic and social unrest.
Libraries have always been a source of comfort and inspiration for me. They offer not only educational resources but also a refuge where stories come alive. During the recent racial justice movement, I turned to our local library for books addressing race, racism, and civil rights, ensuring my children see diverse characters in their reading material. We strive for representation that normalizes LGBTQIA+ identities alongside cisgender and heterosexual narratives.
The Read in Color initiative aims to eventually install Little Free Libraries stocked with diverse literature in every state, but you can also contribute by exploring their recommended reading list or placing a book in an existing LFL in your area. As Greig Metzger, the executive director of LFL, shared, their Impact Library program provides grants to neighborhoods and organizations seeking to establish a library at no cost. This year alone, over 200 libraries have been granted.
More than 1,400 individuals have signed the pledge to read and share diverse books. One supporter from the bilingual library, “La Biblioteca de Diversidad,” emphasized the importance of teaching youth that diversity is beautiful.
Books are powerful tools for fostering understanding and acceptance. They helped me recognize my own worth and embrace my identity. If we can reach more young people who need to hear these messages through initiatives like Little Free Library, why wouldn’t we?
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Summary:
The Little Free Library (LFL) is a global leader in book-sharing initiatives, now launching the Read in Color program to promote diversity in literature. This effort aims to provide access to inclusive books that reflect the experiences of marginalized communities, particularly in the wake of social justice movements. With a commitment to fostering understanding and representation, LFL encourages communities to engage in reading diverse stories and offers resources to support this mission.
Keyphrase: Little Free Library’s Read in Color initiative
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