For many of us, reading was a childhood solace to explore new worlds and learn about topics that fascinated us. As adults, reading can expand our minds, connect us to the world at large, and improve our economic opportunities as we further our education. In an effort to encourage reading at all ages and in all communities, Pasco County Libraries is proud to announce Hugh Embry Library as the recipient of two Little Free Libraries (LFL), awarded through the Little Free Library’s Impact Library Program for November 2021.
Known as the “world’s largest book-sharing movement,” Little Free Libraries provides small outdoor book stands where the public can take home free books or exchange books at home for new ones. The program provides free LFL book exchange stands to communities with members who face economic and social barriers and find it difficult to reach the library. With the Hugh Embry library undergoing renovations, the stands also provide book resources to those not able to travel to other libraries.
The two Dade City communities receiving LFLs are Lacoochee and Tommytown.
Based in Hudson, Wisconsin, Little Free Libraries is a nationwide nonprofit aimed at building community, inspiring readers, and expanding book access for all through a network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries. The program has hundreds of locations across Florida alone, and is growing more and more in Pasco and Hillsborough counties.
“The Little Free Libraries have been a special project of the Friends of Hugh Embry Library for years, already funding five LFLs,” said Pasco County librarian Angelo Liranzo. “Library team members are working with the Friends to reach our community partners in both winning communities as we await the soon-to-arrive LFLs.”
Friends of the Hugh Embry Library and Library staff dedicated themselves to researching and applying for the grant opportunity to obtain the LFLs. Their efforts this year will be far-reaching in the Lacoochee and Tommytown communities as well as surrounding communities and schools where library access is limited.
Visit pascolibraries.org for more information about Pasco County Libraries, including the library catalog, E-content, programs, events and links to all Pasco County Library branches.