There’s something undeniably magical about libraries, those quiet sanctuaries where stories live and imaginations thrive. But as you may already know, there’s no standard for library architecture, and they don’t all look the same. While it’s likely that your city has an iconic library building, or a library built on grand columns or within city buildings, some of the world’s most charming libraries are the ones you stumble across in the most unexpected places.
In celebration of the quirky, cozy, and delightfully unconventional small libraries that give new meaning to the reading experience, we’ve decided to bring you a collection of unique libraries.
The Upper Street Little Library – London, UK
Tucked away in an old red telephone box in Islington, this children’s library is a tiny beacon of joy. It invites young readers to immerse themselves in a story with built-in shelves, warm lighting, and bright colours. The transformation of these iconic British telephone boxes has become a trend in recent years. They’re usually inspired by the Little Free Library philosophy of free book sharing, where anyone can take or share a book.
The Wee Free Refrigerator Library – Palm Beach, Florida, USA
This miniature library is a delightful twist on the traditional Little Free Library. Nestled among the stylish storefronts of The Royal Poinciana Plaza, this bubble-gum pink Smeg refrigerator is stocked with children’s books, crayons, colouring books, bookmarks, and frozen treats perfect for keeping little ones cool in the plaza’s sunny courtyards. In an effort to promote literacy and inclusion, children and families are encouraged to borrow and contribute books during their visits to the library. Isn’t that —literally —a cool initiative?
Levinsky Garden Library – Tel Aviv, Israel
This small library is where migrants and locals gather on weekends in a welcoming space that embraces the diversity of the communities in the neighbourhood. The outdoor library has illuminated shelves that make the books glow in the park at night. Deeply rooted in the community, the library has no walls or doors, with just two bookcases containing around 3,500 books in 16 different languages, offering a peaceful place for the global exchange of words and ideas. The library is in Levinski Park, next to Tel Aviv’s old central bus station. Founded in 2009, The Garden Library was conceived as an information centre for the city’s expatriate communities and has quickly become a vibrant cultural and community hub.
Fun fact: this unique library doesn’t sort books by genre or author but by emotion! After finishing a book, readers select one of seven emotions (such as “bizarre” or “inspiring”), and the book’s placement on the shelf changes based on their experience. Every read reshapes the library.
The IGA Grocery Store Library – Florence, Montana, USA
The small town of Florence, Montana, is home to a unique literary treasure within Gary & Leo’s Fresh Foods IGA. Established in the 1980s as one of the first free community library models, this library is discreetly located in a room adjacent to the meat department, offering customers the opportunity to pick up both their dinner and a new read in a single visit. Although unadvertised, it has become a cherished local institution, reflecting the town’s commitment to literacy and community involvement. Handwritten borrowing guidelines adorn the space, emphasizing its grassroots origins and the trust placed in its patrons. This unassuming library is an example of how everyday spaces can be transformed into centres of knowledge and connection.
Bonus: Doggo Free Little Library – Worldwide
Yes, even dogs are getting into the Little Free Library game! With so many Little Free Libraries for humans, people all over the world have decided to make one for their furry friends. These libraries – usually pint-sized – are usually stocked with dog treats, toys, disposable bags and, why not? A few sticks, offering something for both humans and their four-legged friends. It’s a community building with a tail-wagging twist. In case you were wondering, they are not stocked with cute dogs for you to take home.
From retro telephone boxes to grocery store corners, these libraries prove that the love for stories can thrive just about anywhere. But this is just the beginning, our journey through the world’s most unconventional libraries continues.
In Part 2, we’ll set sail (literally), cross borders, and even dip into magical worlds to discover more libraries that break the mold. Stay tuned for more delightful surprises!
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