#United States #Saint Paul #Little Free Library #Benjamin E. Mays #book-sharing

Little Free Library Celebrates a Historic Milestone

The Little Free Library (LFL) nonprofit organization has proudly marked a pivotal moment by installing its 200,000th book-sharing box. This extraordinary landmark is located at the Benjamin E. Mays International Baccalaureate World School in St. Paul, Minnesota's historic Rondo neighborhood. Unveiling the 200,000th library not only symbolizes the incredible growth of this initiative but also underscores LFL's commitment to enhancing children's access to books—especially in Title I schools across the nation.

A Future-Focused Initiative

The establishment of this library represents the first installment in a series of 200 Little Free Libraries planned for Title I schools across the country. These libraries aim to create a more equitable landscape for students who may not have the same opportunities for literary exploration as others. With this, LFL continues its mission to help burgeoning readers connect with books that can inspire, motivate, and empower them.

The newly inaugurated library, designed to resemble a classic red schoolhouse, is not merely a nod to nostalgia; it’s a dedicated space exclusively for the students of Benjamin E. Mays IB World School. LFL's Executive Director, Greig Metzger, emphasized the significance of this milestone not just as a retrospective achievement but as an investment in the future—a future where all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, can easily access inspiring literature.

The Unveiling Ceremony

To mark the occasion, a special dedication ceremony was held at the school, gathering around 50 students who had excelled in a recent reading challenge. The event featured heartfelt remarks from Metzger and the school principal, Dr. Kenneth O. Turner Jr. Alongside a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, students participated in a reading session, happily receiving books generously donated by Penguin Random House. From young scholars to educators, the enthusiasm was palpable as everyone celebrated the arrival of this new resource.

In Dr. Turner’s words, “Freedom is the road seldom traveled by the multitudes; however, literacy is the gateway to learn one’s past, present and shape the future.” His powerful sentiment encapsulated the broader significance of literacy in bridging the gap between opportunity and achievement.

Expanding Access to Books

In the wake of the 200,000th installation, 199 additional Little Free Libraries will soon be placed within Title I elementary schools across the country. These libraries will be stocked with new books, thanks in part to a substantial donation of over 40,000 books from Penguin Random House. The partnership underscores the importance of making literature accessible, especially for young readers who may not have personal libraries at home.

Schools that will benefit from this initiative were selected through a thoughtful application process, showcasing their compelling narratives for how a Little Free Library could impact their school communities significantly.

For instance, at Iditarod Elementary School in Alaska, every student qualifies for free or reduced lunch, making the addition of a Little Free Library crucial for fostering a love for reading. Similar stories from institutions across the country highlighted just how necessary this resource will be for students facing various challenges.

Celebrate with LFL

To commemorate this landmark achievement and the rollout of the new libraries, LFL is organizing an event on March 20 at the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul. The event will be ticketed, but for those unable to attend, there are many ways to engage with the LFL mission, such as starting a new Little Free Library, volunteering, or donating to help expand book access.

As we reflect on the past and eagerly anticipate a future where every child has access to books, let us remember the importance of community action in making these dreams a reality. To learn more about this initiative, visit littlefreelibrary.org/200k.

About Little Free Library

Little Free Library® (LFL) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for people everywhere. With over 190,000 registered libraries worldwide, LFL continues to provide essential resources that enhance the literary landscape for all.

About Benjamin E. Mays IB School

Established in 1977, the Benjamin E. Mays IB World School serves as a beacon in the St. Paul community, honing students’ critical thinking, research, and communication skills, paving the way for future leaders.

About Penguin Random House

As the largest trade publisher in the world, Penguin Random House's mission is to ignite a universal passion for reading. They believe that books can connect and inspire readers across generations.

Together, these collaborations signify a vital move toward a world where access to literature is universal, and every child's reading journey is celebrated.