Just as the COVID-19 pandemic came into full swing, free library boxes were placed in many parks throughout the city. This came on the heels of the Library box that was installed in McCowin Park on the corner of Midway and Southwick.
The idea behind these boxes is that you bring a book from home and trade it out for a book in the community box. That way there is always a fresh selection and a constant rotation of books in stock.
The little free library movement started in Hudson, Wisconsin in 2012 and has spread rapidly across the country. You can find more information on their website at littlefreelibrary.org.
During the early part of August 2020, just as lock down and stay at home orders were being issued, the city installed 7 library boxes that were built by a local Boy Scout troop in the following parks: Lions, Peterson, Eagle Pointe, Tiebreaker, Quail Ridge, Sandcreek, and Woodland Hills.
This came as a timely blessing to many families who would not have had access to books at this time because of the restrictions that were put in place by state and federal governments.
Prior to this citizens would have to drive to Iona or downtown Idaho Falls to borrow books from an established library. Now most citizens can get a book within a few blocks of their own homes.
While the library boxes have done a great job rotating books, in recent months some of the boxes have fallen into disrepair and are in need of attention.
Check your local park for a free library box and participate by swapping out a book!
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