Little Free Library comes to Monticello

     Monticello is now home to its first Little Free Library.

     Just as fair week was beginning in town, a Little Free Library was erected next to the Jones County Youth Development Center, located at the fairgrounds. This facility houses both the Iowa State University Extension & Outreach offices, as well as the fair offices.

     The project is thanks to Jones County Extension Director Jennifer Fischer. Last Christmas, Fischer asked her dad to build her a Little Free Library. She intended to install it out in front of her home in Anamosa. However, with several Free Little Libraries already in Anamosa, Fischer felt it was time to get one in Monticello.

     “I’ve wanted one for years,” she said of the concept. “So my dad (Carl Crow of Cedar Rapids) made me one for Christmas.”

     Fischer said she was excited to put hers up in Monticello, right in front of her office.

     “We’re all about youth development here,” she said.

     For those who are unfamiliar with a Little Free Library, the concept is simple: Take a book, return a book. Anyone of any age can take a book from the box to read. You could either return it or exchange it with one of your own.

     Fischer said she’s seen Little Free Libraries in Cedar Rapids next to the fire station and in the parks.

     After her dad built the structure, Ron Kahler built the post. Fischer said the city employees helped drill the hole for sturdy installation.

     “John Harms (GJCF Manager) thought it was a great idea,” she said of bringing the concept to his attention. “He said this (education) is what we’re here for.”

     The Little Free Library is seen outside the YDC off the driveway past the building.

     According to littlefreelibrary.org, “Little Free Library book exchanges have a unique, personal touch. There is an understanding that real people are sharing their favorite books with their community; Little Libraries have been called ‘mini-town squares.’”

     Fischer said those are her thoughts as well.

     “I hope people pick up a book that they don’t usually read and it gets them interested in more.” She said if that person enjoys the book, they could then visit the Monticello Public Library to find more books written by that same author or same subject matter.

     Each registered Little Free Library gets a plaque and charter number, making it easy for people to go online and find out which cities/towns have Free Libraries. The Little Free Library at the fairgrounds is number 57947.

     Fischer said the location provides easy access for people who may want to drive up to the box. The proximity to the building offers some protection, with minimal upkeep.

     “They come in all shapes and sizes and fun designs,” shared Fischer.

     She said above all, the idea is to promote reading, especially for the youth.

     “My son even donated his own books to start with, and they’re getting used already,” she said.

     “The goal is to get a book in someone’s hand.”

     The Little Free Library is open to the public; people of all ages can help themselves by donating books or taking books to read and enjoy. The Extension Office also donated bookmarks as well.

     Fischer said the Extension service is all about reaching out into the community, and this Little Free Library is just one of the many ways to do so.

     “Maybe people will pass on books they’ve read, something that meant a lot to them, and inspire others to read it as well,” encouraged Fischer. “Write a message inside why you enjoyed that book and put a smile on someone’s face.”