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Little Libraries

Little library standLittle Free Libraries are a growing global phenomenon. The small, front‐yard book exchanges number 36,000 around the world in 70 countries. These free Libraries play an essential role by providing our community 24/7 access to books and encouraging a love of reading in areas where books are scarce.

Recognizing that one of the most successful ways to improve the reading achievement of children is to increase their access to books, especially at home (McGill-Franzen & Allington, 2009) and understanding that according to the U.S. Department of Education, up to 61% of low-income families do not have any books for their kids at home the Chamber saw a need that could easily be addressed.

Beginning in 2019 the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce proudly partnered with Chapman Maxwell of Maxwell Construction who donated 4 libraries. Currently, 3 free libraries are open to the public throughout Atmore. They are ideally situated at Atmore’s picturesque parks including Houston Avery Park, Heritage Park, and Downtown Atmore.

“Our Little Library doesn’t just belong to us, it belongs to the whole community,” says Emily Wilson, Executive Director. “It’s our hope that this Little Library will bring a little more joy, a little more connection, and a whole lot more books to our community.”

Little library stand with door open and books insideAnyone may contribute or take books. However, in order to keep the Little Library full of good choices for the whole neighborhood, the next time you swing by the Library bring a few books to share. If you take a book (or two) from a Library, you do not need to return that exact book.  Little Free Library book exchanges function on the honor system; everyone contributes to ensure there are always quality books inside for both children and adults. This way, we all win!

Do you have gently used books you would like to donate to the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce? You can donate a book(s) by simply placing them in the Little Free Library book exchange near you or by bringing your donation to the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce located at 137 North Main Street in Atmore, Alabama.  Please review the donation guidelines following below for our book donation guidelines and additional information.

WE WILL ACCEPT:
All fiction and non-fiction, hardcover, and paperback books for children and adults in good condition including bi-lingual books (ex. Spanish/English).

WE CANNOT ACCEPT:
Boxes that have been moved directly from long term storage to the Library.  Damaged books with broken bindings, missing pages, soiled, musty, moldy, with smoke or water damage, or with excessive writing in the text.

For more information about this program or to report inappropriate materials in the libraries
please contact a member of the Chamber Team at (251) 368-3305.

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