#Japan #Tokyo #Community Building #DIY Workshop #Private Library

Creating Connections through Books: A Community-Driven Library Workshop

The preparations for the private library in Higashi-Ueno and Shin-Ohashi are in full swing, spearheaded by VOL Bicycle Plus One Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based company dedicated to community development. This initiative aims to foster social connections through books, culminating in a DIY event series dubbed "Building a Library Workshop: Let's Create a Connected Bookshelf Together." Starting January 12, 2026, this project will run over four workshops designed to transition the preparation room into a fully operational library.

Background of the Private Library Initiative

Established in November 2025, the preparation room for the private library aims to create a shared library that is not solely managed by one entity but by numerous bookshelf owners. In the first workshop titled "Transform Your Favorite Items into a Library" held on November 24, 16 individuals signed up as bookshelf owners, collectively contributing over 400 donated books.

As the library gears up for its grand opening, it focuses on enhancing its layout to be more user-friendly, accommodating an increasing number of bookshelf owners while embodying the library's core concept of "building and connecting together."

Details of the DIY Library Workshop

The workshop series will take place on January 12, 13, 22, and 25, 2026, with the goal of constructing 100 separate bookshelves. Participants will engage in various activities including discussions, design roles, measuring, cutting materials, and assembling bookshelves. Additionally, each session will feature a mini-event centered around enjoying reading, creating a holistic experience for participants.

Event Schedule

• - Workshop Name: Building a Library Workshop: Let's Create a Connected Bookshelf Together
• - Dates and Times:

- January 12, 2026 (Holiday Monday) 14:30 - 16:30
- January 13, 2026 (Tuesday) 18:00 - 20:00
- January 22, 2026 (Thursday) 18:00 - 20:00
- January 25, 2026 (Sunday) 14:30 - 16:30

• - Location: Private Library Preparation Room, 1F, Shinida Building, 2-2-1, Higashi-Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
• - Target Audience: Open to anyone willing to share thoughts, with no age restrictions
• - Capacity: 20 participants (walk-ins allowed if spots are available)
• - Items to Bring: None required

Mini-Event: Hot Tea Tasting

On January 12 and 13, participants can enjoy a mini-event titled "Hot Tea Tasting: Discover Your Perfect Winter Reading Companion." Participants will sample 12 varieties of hot tea, vote for their favorite tea, and popular selections may be considered for permanent offerings at the library.

Ongoing Recruitment for Bookshelf Owners

As the library approaches its official opening, it continues to welcome new bookshelf owners. Currently in a free trial period, participants can enjoy exclusive benefits that include having a personal shelving space within the library, connecting with visitors and fellow owners, utilizing a communal space, and more.

Future Events and Membership

Starting January 9, 2026, attendees can register for membership and check out books. Monthly informational sessions continue to be scheduled to explain the library's operations.

Upcoming Informational Sessions

• - January 9, 2026 (Friday) 19:00 - 20:00 (In-person & Online)
• - January 10, 2026 (Saturday) 14:30 - 15:30 (In-person & Online)
• - January 16, 2026 (Friday) 14:00 - 15:00 (In-person & Online)
• - January 18, 2026 (Sunday) 15:00 - 16:00 (In-person & Online)
• - January 21, 2026 (Wednesday) 19:00 - 20:00 (In-person & Online)
• - January 28, 2026 (Wednesday) 10:30 - 11:30 (In-person & Online)

About VOL Bicycle Plus One

Founded in August 2017, VOL Bicycle Plus One Co., Ltd. focuses on bicycle-related community development and regional consulting. They operate the cycling hub "And Cycling Tokyo," aiming to bridge communities and foster connections through bicycles and increasingly beyond.

Contact Information: For inquiries, contact VOL Bicycle Plus One Co., Ltd., led by Yasuyuki Kawamura, at 03-5830-7017 or visit here.