Village could get a Little Free Library

Belgium’s Parks, Recreation and Forestry Committee last week agreed to put $600 into next year’s budget for two Little Free Libraries, per the request of a resident.

Linda Clausing said the village doesn’t have any way for residents to check out books and suggested a Little Free Library.

“Belgium doesn’t have anything for these kids if they want to read. I’m a reader,” she said.

The Monarch Library System’s Bookmobile makes three regular stops in Belgium, but the Little Free Library would be a permanent resource.

The dimensions of the libraries are 18x18x22 inches, about the size of a birdhouse. The idea is people drop off books for others and take ones they want to read. It’s on the honor system.

Committee Chairman Don Gotcher said the libraries are popular in a suburb of Minneapolis where his daughter lives. It has 15 to 20.

“I personally think it’s a good idea because I’ve seen it work,” he said.

Clausing said the structures come finished or unfinished, or people may build their own. One set that requires to be put together costs $269 for materials plus $65 for shipping.

Village Clerk Julie Lesar said a resident contacted her asking to put one on the person’s property, as well as a Boy Scout leader whose troop may be interested in putting one together or building one.

Lesar said she checked with other clerks about the Little Free Libraries and received all positive responses. Most required board approval for libraries put on public property.

Committee member Victor Lecato said the village could sustain two Little Free Libraries.

Committee member Dale Pfeifer was absent.