Texas Center for the Book Announces Little Free Library Tour

Friday, February 26, 2016 • Austin, Texas • News Release

The Texas Center for the Book and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, will partner with Little Free Library founder, Todd H. Bol, to distribute more than 50 little free libraries across the Lone Star State. The national nonprofit tours Texas from March 2-15, 2016 to promote a love of reading and community through free book exchanges with building workshops in Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Plano.

Austin residents have two opportunities to get up close and personal with little free libraries. Students from Radicle Roots Community Schoolhouse and invited guests will assemble at the Hope Outdoor Gallery Graffiti Wall (1101 Baylor Street) from 11 AM – 2 PM and build 6 libraries for distribution throughout Austin-area neighborhoods. 

Local artist Federico Archuleta joins the festivities to lend his unique style of spray painted stencil art to a mural and a specially designed library. Meanwhile, Austin Public Library’s human-powered mobile branch, unbound: sin fronteras, will also be on hand to sign up visitors for library cards and to check out books. Little Free Library founder, Todd Bol, will address guests with a special announcement regarding the future of Little Free Libraries in Texas at 1 PM.

The celebration continues with a Books and Beer Happy Hour at Blue Owl Brewing (2400 E. Cesar Chavez Street) from 5 PM – 8 PM. A panel of local librarians and literary lovers will offer their best book pairings with Blue Owl's brews. Little free libraries will be on display to give guests insight into the nationwide movement. Attendees are encouraged to bring gently used books to help populate the newest additions to the mini-branches popping up throughout Austin. One attendee will win a little free library.

After the build event, local stewards, such as Austin’s in.gredients and Sunshine Community Gardens, will curate the content of each collection, look after the little libraries and encourage their own communities to share in the exchange of books.

“Little free libraries are an innovative way to engage readers of all ages in communities across Texas in the joy of reading,” commented Mark Smith, Director and Librarian of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. “These libraries serve as a starting point for conversations about literature and act as a gateway which eventually leads readers to take part in the many inspired events, activities and resources available in their neighborhood brick and mortar library.”

For more information about the events on March 10, please contact TSLAC Communications Officer Stephen Siwinski ssiwinksi@tsl.texas.gov ( 512-463 -5514).