Young Men Work to Create Two "Little Free Libraries"

     The Young Men above show off the two Little Free Libraries created by all of the Young Men--from Deacons and Teachers to Priests.  A Little Free Library is a "take a book, share a book" exchange.  Anyone may take a book or bring a book to share. Both libraries were installed in areas of the ward that didn't previously have a Little Free Library. These book exchanges have a unique personal touch. There is an understanding that real people are sharing their favorite books with their community, and thus they have been called "mini-town squares."

    How did the little houses get filled with books when first finished?  Sherrill and Ken Adamska have one by their house. They and their daughters and friends put in the first books. Then neighbors began to take books, and put books in.  Sherrill said that in the first two weeks there was a great turnover. Bike riders stopped by to see what was going on. People were commenting on what a wonderful thing it was.

   Now about the building of the libraries. Through the year over 100 service hours went into the planning, construction, and installation of these two libraries.  In addition to the young men leaders, Arnell Clegg (Elders Quorum Activity Coordinator) played an instrumental part in the development of the libraries.  They had no kits, but built everything from scratch.  First they had to make a design, and then work with raw materials. Brother Clegg  taught them skills that once learned will help them for the rest of their lives. Brother Clegg did the harder tasks, but the boys learned to use tools safely without being hurt. Some of the things they learned were how to use measuring tapes, levels, power staplers, and drills. They learned how to put a roof on and seal it. Then the houses had to be painted. During the several months of this project the young men enjoyed working together and were excited and proud of the finished project.