Spread joy and encourage literacy with United Way of Washington County and Washington County Free Library by supporting small free libraries throughout the county!
What are Little Neighborhood Libraries?
Little Neighborhood Libraries is what we're calling all of the free community-led book exchange boxes, like Little Free Libraries, that encourage people of all ages to read books, build their personal libraries, and share a love of learning with others. Some little libraries are maintained by individual volunteers and some by local organizations, all with a shared goal of making books available in different neighborhoods across Washington County.
How do Little Neighborhood Libraries work?
It's easy: take any book that interests you! These books are 100% free and are yours to keep for as long as you'd like– even forever. If you have books that you would like to leave for others to enjoy, you can do that too! Some little libraries cater to particular age groups, such as early elementary readers, but most have a variety of books for people of all ages to enjoy.
Where can I find a Little Neighborhood Library?
This map shows current locations that have been identified in the county:
Know of a Little Neighborhood Library not on the map? Let us know!
Why do we need these?
While there are plenty of books available for all to access at public libraries and other locations throughout Washington County, Little Neighborhood Libraries offer 24/7 access to reading materials. These community-based resources are especially important in high-need areas. Studies have shown that children with their own home libraries are more likely to achieve educational and lifelong success, and we believe the same to be true for people of all ages. Together, we can help share the love of reading with everyone in our community!
What are United Way and WCFL doing?
We are working together to share information about existing community-led libraries in Washington County, organize larger volunteer efforts to keep them in good condition and stocked with quality books, and encourage everyone in our community to share a love of reading with their neighbors, family, and friends.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in helping to restock and clean up Little Neighborhood Libraries, our first group volunteer event will be Friday, June 7, 2024 from 3-5 PM at the back of 83 West Washington Street, Hagerstown (United Way office). We want to get these small libraries ready for an influx of summer readers to enjoy with a Summer Refresh!
SSL hours are available for these projects. Volunteers must provide their own transportation to various free library sites.
Interested in volunteering individually or with a group (books club, church, business) outside of group volunteer events? Reach out to Stacey at stacey@uwwcmd.org to learn more about how to get started!
Quality Books
If you wouldn't want a book on your shelf at home because it is in bad shape or outdated, chances are that no one else does either. Stocking libraries with books in good condition (no major tears, ripped or missing pages, etc.) and of high interest (different reading levels, interesting topics, etc.) is our goal. That means no old copies of National Geographic magazines, 1970s encyclopedias, or textbooks please!
Donated books volunteers identify as not meeting general quality standards will be repurposed through local partnerships.
Interested in purchasing new books to donate? Here are some great titles that highlight the importance of reading and accessible books!
More Ways to Help
Learn more about Books United, and support the purchase of cleaning supplies and other needed items for this effort via United Way here: https://www.unitedwaywashcounty.org/books-united