How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library: 11 Mini Structures You Can Build

by Little Free Library, Philip Schmidt

Expand the book-sharing movement to your community with How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library —your photo-illustrated, inspirational source for building tiny sharing libraries.

Around the world, a community movement is underway featuring quaint landscape structures mounted on posts in front yards and other green spaces, as well as supported in large pots and other vessels outside homes and businesses on busy urban streets. They are evidence of the growing trend toward neighborhood organization, community outreach, and in some cases, a quiet protest against book bans.

This movement has been popularized by Minnesota-based Little Free Library (LFL), whose members currently include 200,000 library stewards around the world who seek to build community togetherness and promote reading by sharing books among neighbors. LFL has inspired builders to use similar structures to share things like CDs, food, and seeds in the community.

Produced in cooperation with the Little Free Library nonprofit organization and authored by professional carpenter Phil Schmidt, How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library is the builder’s complete source of inspiration and how-to knowledge. This newly updated, information-packed guide

A how-to for planning and designing your little sharing structureAn overview of building materials and tools11 complete plans for structures of varying sizes and aestheticsStep-by-step color photography and instructionsA gallery of tiny structures, along with uplifting words from stewards, for further inspirationInformation on proper installation of the small structuresCommon repairs and maintenance for down the roadTimely information on how LFL has become part of the growing movement against book bans
How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library even includes information on how to become an official library steward, getting the word out about your little structure once it’s up and running, and tips for building a lively collection. Also included are QR codes for additional building videos as well as interactive maps for locating other LFLs near you—or wherever you may travel!

Community togetherness has never been so much at the fore of our consciousness—or so important. How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library is one tool on the road to helping you build community in your neighborhood.

Genres: Nonfiction

435 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 2, 2025

Reviews

[Susan Bewley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has considered building her own library for her side of the neighborhood, I have to say I love this book. The author does a fantastic job making the entire process approachable, from planning to finding materials and determining which design is best for your household’s needs. My favorite design was actually one that included not just the little free library but an area for sharing plants, too. They also explain why you should have a library and some holidays you can celebrate (such as Banned Book Day). As someone who used to teach and loves reading, I am a huge fan of How to Build Your Own Little Free Library: 11 Mini Structures You Can Build and recommend it to anyone looking at adding one to their property.

[Kristen Barenthaler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've always wanted my own little library and keep pestering my dad to make me one. This might be his next birthday present so that he has no choice. Great instructions, designs, inspiration, and photos to get anyone started on their journey to creating their own little library.