Woman Turns The 110-Year-Old Tree Stump In Her Yard Into A Magical Miniature Free Library
S E E D E D C O N T E N T
In 2019, many book lovers are more likely to grab their Kindles and head to a chic café than visit their local library. That means nonprofit organizations like Little Free Library , which work to build and rejuvenate libraries worldwide, have to get creative.
Thus, the “Little Tree Library”: an enchanting library carved out of a 110-year-old cottonwood tree.
Sharalee Armitage Howard created the Little Tree Library in her own front yard. As a librarian herself, she understands the importance of a cozy, beautiful reading environment.
“We had to remove a huge tree that was 110 years old, so I decided to turn it into a library (which I’ve always wanted),” Sharalee wrote on Facebook .
She added a roof to the tree stump, carved out the inside, and added a door and lighting. Inside, there are shelves full of books available to borrow for free.
Sharalee Armitage Howard is a librarian, artist, and former bookbinder.
In December, Sharalee shared one of her most impressive projects yet: She created a library out of a huge tree stump in her front yard.
The stump came from a 110-year-old cottonwood tree, which had to be removed from the property because it was rotting and becoming dangerous.
Rather than just raze it completely, Sharalee turned it into something much, much better.
The Little Free Library project encourages people to build similar miniature libraries like this all around the world. Over 75,000 libraries in 88 countries have been created so far.
The libraries are essentially free book exchanges. Anyone can take out books from the shelves, and anyone can donate books. You don’t have to return the exact book that you take, either.
If you happen to live in the Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, area, you might discover the tree library in person. If not, you can check to see which Little Free Libraries are located in your own neighborhood .
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Nice article ! I have one in my town and I've taken books and left books.
Very cool, Pat. Thanks for stopping by to comment.
Dear Friend Pat Wilson: Libraries are thought warehouses.
E.
We have several of these little libraries in my neighborhood and I've borrowed a few books from them. This reminds me of the small stack of books that I have to donate.
I have dozens of books to donate but no place will take them ... not even the public libraries in my area. I've held onto them, because I can't throw them out.
If there is a retirement community/building in your area, they may take them.
Where my mother lives they take donated books for their library.
Have you thought about the local jail or a prison in your area?
That's a great idea, Sunshine. Thanks!
Another great idea. Thanks, bccrane!
Very cool
Thanks for stopping in to read and comment!
Great little find. I love stories like this. I wonder if these towns have no libraries?
Thanks, Perrie. So do I. I keep meaning to make a group here for sharing positive, non-political stories, but I've never gotten around to it.
I don't know. Each of the small towns in my area has its own public library, but I'm not in a remote area of the country.
What a WONDERFUL idea Sharalee had, and the ability to create it. It should make others think of what great contributions they can do to make their communities a pleasant and happy place to live.
Thanks for posting this very uplifting article - it makes one have more faith in people's good intentions and creativity.
If books happen to be something important to you, you can join the Books group here.
I'm glad you enjoyed the article!
I've always been an avid reader, so thank you for inviting me to join the Books group. I'm someone who enjoys physically holding a book and not use an electronic device.
Great idea, BUT she is giving public access to her private property, I see steps without handrails, no snow removal or melting aids, and no handicapped ramp. The first slip and fall or access lawsuit and that stump is gone.
I understand your point, but maybe in Ms. Howard's area, people aren't as litigious as in other parts of the country. Also, on Dec. 18, 2018 she posted on her facebook page that she's not finished with the project, so maybe she'll be adding the things you listed.
I have gone through so many lawsuits, as a defendant, that I tend to look for what could become a possible problem when you deal with other peoples actions foreseen as well as unforeseen. If she wishes to continue with this project she needs to consult with her home owners insurance provider and/or turn the library into a corp. or LLC in which the only assets are whats in the stump and the stump rents the property on which it sits and have a lawyer look it over to be sure that the shell of the corporation can't be breached and the personal property becomes part of the lawsuit.
What is the difference than giving the UPS person access?
UPS has insurance and workman's comp. to cover injuries.
oh, gotchya
I have a neighbor a few houses down that does this also. She built a little open house, but it only holds about 20 books. First time I had seen anything like it and also thought what a great idea.
Dear Friend Jasper: Great fell good seed.
Please keep them coming.
We are indebted.
If that tree library branches out, keep us in the loop.
OK, I will stop punning and leaf now.
No point running on like a sap.
Enoch.
Dear Friend Enoch ...
Thank yew for punning a shred of humor. I mulch appreciate it!
Dear Friend Jasper: You got the the root of my intent.
Please keep on trunkin.
Enoch, Being Unseasonable Shady.
These types of local neighborhood libraries are very important for those who do not have the ability to travel far to reach a public library. I have donated many books to those in the neighborhoods where I have lived over the years. I have donated books on many different subjects, and also borrowed some to read.
Such libraries are also a good place for those who are less educated to broaden their knowledge in order to improve their education and perhaps find a better job.
It is always a good idea to support these types of libraries, as they can make a difference in some people's lives, even if it is only to read an inspiring book.
Very thoughtful comment, Raven Wing. Thank you!