Take a Book. Share a Book.

You may have seen them popping up on neighborhood street corners, in front of schools and community centers or around college campuses. But behind every small box filled with books is an opportunity to make a big impact. Little Free Library (LFL) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to build community, inspire readers and expand book access for all. The concept is simple: Take a Book. Leave a Book. Volunteer stewards are responsible for establishing the library—usually by building or buying a small wooden box—and stewards will source books, stock books and maintain their library to increase community engagement.

Today, more than 30 million adults cannot read or write above a third-grade level, and 61% of children living at or below the poverty line do not have access to books at home. Studies show that books in the hands of children early on have a meaningful impact on improving literacy. Establishing a LFL allows 24-hour access to books—increasing book access for readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Ready to turn your passion for literacy into a resource your community can use? Follow these four steps to establish a Little Free Library, from finding the right location and designing your library to getting it registered and engaging your community.

1. Find a location

To get started, you, your chapter or club must identify where you can legally and safely install the library. Consider placing one in front of your chapter house, an individual’s home or identify a book desert in your area. Once you’ve established a location, determine at least one designated steward to take care of it.

2. Start designing

You can build your own Little Free Library following any design you like using a LFL plan and blueprint, or you can purchase a library through the online store. Libraries purchased through the online store are automatically registered and come with a charter sign. Gather your sisters to design, paint and name your library.

3. Get registered

Register your library by purchasing an official charter sign. After you register, you’ll gain access to a network of benefits such as setting up your steward account and listing your LFL on the mobile app and web map. Your library will not appear on the map unless you set up your steward account and add it. Check out Pi Beta Phi’s LFL map and be sure to email [email protected] to add yours to the list.

4. Engage with the community

Get your local community involved by sharing with your sisters, club members, campus partners and on social media! Consider hosting a grand opening ceremony and inviting community partners and students. The more people who know about your library and support it, the better!