Community Champion Boosts the Joy of Little Free Libraries

EVA, Ala. – The presence of Little Free Library spots continues to grow within the community, largely due to a local resident’s initiatives.

Stephanie Sprouse, a Fairview local, expressed her aspiration of establishing numerous Little Free Libraries in remote locations to disseminate quality literature among children.

“Just as Cheryl (Kahlstorf), the proprietor of Branch Books, is expanding and inaugurating new bookstore sites, I have envisioned doing something similar,” she mentioned. “A Little Free Library operates as a complimentary book-sharing unit, where anyone can take a book or contribute a book. They rely on the honor system. It’s not required to donate a book to take one. If you pick up a book or two from a little library, please consider returning some to that same library or another nearby, when possible.”

Sprouse conveyed that several thrift shops in the area have reached out to her, offering free books to supply the libraries.

“I am grateful for the contributions and local backing,” Sprouse remarked. “Utilizing the library app during your visit to a Little Free Library is beneficial to the steward. You can suggest titles you would like to see available or inform the steward about necessary repairs. My one-of-a-kind handmade bookmarks can be found at both Branch Books branches, in Hartselle and Cullman. All proceeds from these bookmark sales are directed towards acquiring new books to fill the Little Free Library boxes in Fairview and Eva. The bookmarks are crafted from repurposed leather and old books. The leather bookmarks are priced at $7 and the children’s bookmarks at $3.”

At present, she manages two Little Free Libraries.

“They are situated at Fairview Park (next to the veterans pavilion) and Eva Shorty Ryan Park (near the park mailbox),” Sprouse indicated. “The Eva Little Free Library was set up and officially made accessible to the public on December 23, 2024.”

The establishment of the Fairview and Eva Little Free Libraries was facilitated by donations from local churches and schools, as well as literacy grants.

“I take pleasure in being a responsible steward of the books that flow through my possession,” Sprouse commented. “I work at a secondhand bookstore in Cullman and share some books with the community through these libraries. My husband and I have installed a total of three boxes across our local areas in the past six years. With my background in elementary education, I have a passion for children’s literature. I hope that children visiting these parks will leave with a great book to enjoy. Please register with the Little Free Library app, embark on a book scavenger hunt, and reach out to the steward when you visit their library. Should there be any necessary repairs or concerns regarding the boxes, inform them. Happy reading.”

Additionally, Sprouse encouraged people to tune in to The Cullman Tribune’s Bedtime Stories series on Facebook or YouTube, where she reads her favorite children’s books.

If you possess books you wish to donate, feel free to drop them by a Little Free Library or contact Stephanie Sprouse at sproushouse777@gmail.com or 205-601-7323 for collection.

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