Take a book, share a book! We’re putting our tools, skills, and creativity to work on a project that will help bring books to schools throughout Lowell.
The project started when Vinh Le, a lifelong Lowell resident, approached our Lowell Makes Wood Shop Captain, Jon Goplerud, with an idea: build Little Free Libraries where people can easily find, share, and enjoy books right in their neighborhoods. With a shared appreciation for community and accessible learning, it was an idea we were excited to get behind.
Mr. Le has secured permission from school boards to install 5 Little Free Libraries on grade school campuses. The Lowell Public Library is lending their support by donating books for the project.
From an idea to the first library
Eric Burnham has stepped up as the project champion, working with fellow members to design and build our first Little Free Library. After a couple of weekend work sessions, the team has developed a design and started working out the details of the building process.
Like any good maker project, there’s a little prototyping involved! The goal is to get the first library right, figure out the most efficient way to build more, and create opportunities for volunteers to jump in.
We’ve already found one way to stretch our materials: the design allows us to cut most of the pieces for two library boxes from a single 4-by-8-foot sheet of plywood. With an estimated material cost of around $55 per box (not including the post or stand), we’re working to make this project as affordable as possible.
Want to get involved?
This project is about more than building boxes for books. It’s an opportunity for Lowell Makes members to share their skills, learn from one another, and contribute to the city we call home.
As the project gets underway, we’re looking for volunteers to help build additional libraries, decorate the finished boxes, and explore ways to involve more of our shops. We’re also looking for sponsors and donors to help cover the cost of materials.
Interested in lending a hand? Lowell Makes members can reach out to Eric Burnham or connect with the team through the Little Free Libraries project page on Basecamp.
You can also support the project through the Little Free Library fundraising page on GoFundMe.
We’re excited to see where this project goes and how many books, ideas, and connections it brings to Lowell. Stay tuned for more updates as we turn this idea into something our neighbors can enjoy!
Take a book. Share a book. Help us build something good for Lowell.