Temple City Youth Committee’s Little Free Library system offers residents a different experience, unlike a traditional library. The committee began the Little Library project in March 2015, and people can find these free libraries around Temple City.
At Oak Avenue Intermediate School, users of this program can find small, decorated boxes called Little Libraries. Readers select books that previous owners leave behind. When somebody borrows a book, it is their job to return it or replace it. This way, the library’s selection will continue to be filtered with new and returning books.
“In 2014, the committee took an excursion to Grand Park in downtown LA and while visiting Grand Park, we
noticed the little libraries there,” Temple City Youth Committee Member Senior Agnes Mok said. “We took an interest in them and decided to do more research on them.”
The Youth Committee does not own the Little Free Libraries themselves. In fact, they rely on everyone to keep the Little Libraries safe and fun. However, the committee will check in on the boxes every so often if there are any damages.
“We introduced a series of Little Free Libraries to Temple City because we wanted not only to stimulate literacy, but to do it in a way that would bring the community together,” Mok said. “ People from all around the area can share their favorite books with one another. We’re embracing the small-town feel Temple City imparts.”
