This past Thursday, Todd Bol, the founder of the Little Free Library movement, passed away at the age of 62, just a month after receiving his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
I don’t know when they first took root in Wallingford (although Kimberly wrote about hers here back in 2012), but they’ve been a pleasant addition to my neighborhood strolls (and my bedside table) for at least half a decade.
In his honor, I hopped on my bike Saturday afternoon and took a slow loop through the neighborhood, photographing each library I passed. Given how the philosophy of giving without expecting anything in return, and of investing in the education of everyone around you, feels so simpatico with our neighborhood, it didn’t surprise me how many I came across in just a half hour ride. And I’m sure the ones I found were half as many as Wallingford holds. Thanks to everyone who has built one or donated a book!
Thanks for this Jordan – I love what one person’s idea has grown to become. What an amazing legacy. I’m sad to learn of Todd’s passing.
Thanks so much for the article and especially the pictures! The libraries always cheer me up when I’m out walking. Sorry to hear of his passing.
Thank you so much for the article. I love these libraries. Can you give locations? I think you missed several which are on the west side of Stone Way N between 41th & 44th… not past Aurora.( Comment re comments)
Jordan, you are a valuable member of the community. Thank you so much for writing about these delightful little free libraries. This is a wonderful legacy for Todd. I did not realize he was the person responsible for their existence in our area. The photographs are delightful.
What a brilliant and thoughtful way to celebrate his legacy — and all those who set up and maintain these little libraries. Thank you, Jordan!