Little Free Libraries

Raising Readers in Story County (RRSC) has participated in the Little Free Libraries (LFL) program beginning in 2012. We arranged for the construction of child-height structures, recruited a steward, provided an initial collection of books, and offered more books as needed. Most of these initial free-standing libraries were in neighborhoods where children may not have easy access to books or the public library. Communities served with the initial Little Free Libraries included: Ames, Gilbert, Nevada, Huxley, and Maxwell.

The number of LFLs in Ames and Story County has continued to grow dramatically. In 2019,  RRSC initiated a rehabilitation and expansion program to increase the number of LFLs in Story County with a focus on public parks, schools, and preschools. There is no official list. However as of February 5th, 2024, RRSC staff has identified a list of 129 LFLs currently open in Story County. Nearly half of the LFLs (62) were constructed and/or maintained by residents on their property. However, LFLs are also found in businesses and organizations (16), schools and preschools (11),  churches (7), and parks/trails (33). 

RRSC accepts book donations from the public which can be placed in the LFLs located in our parks and some other public spaces frequented by children.

Little Free Libraries have been identified in Ames, Cambridge, Colo, Gilbert, Huxley, Kelley, Maxwell, McCallsburg, Nevada, Roland, Slater, Story City, and Zearing. 

Click here for a Map of LFLs in Story County

A QR code and the web page address will be attached to those LFLs where RRSC has been involved.  The QR code links to this website and allows the public to provide comments, offer suggestions, or ask questions. You may also use the QR code to report when a LFL is low on books, empty, or if damage has occurred. We appreciate your help in monitoring our local LFLs.

E-mail contact for Little Free Libraries in Story County: lfl@raising-readers.org