The Barrie Public Library (BPL) has rolled out a pilot project called Little Free Libraries—with the first two now installed at Sunnidale Park and Lampman Lane Park.
The small outdoor book boxes work on an honour system.
"You can take a book, leave a book, or just browse and see what's there," according to a news release from the BPL.
Library officials say the idea is to make reading more accessible outside of traditional branch locations, while also encouraging community connection in neighbourhood parks.
"Libraries are about meeting people where they are, and these Little Free Libraries are another way we're bringing the joy of reading into our neighbourhoods," said Lauren Jessop, CEO of Barrie Public Library." While they don't replace a library branch, they provide easy access to free books, inspire a love of reading, and help make literacy more accessible for everyone. We hope these little libraries become places where neighbours connect, share stories, and discover their next great read."
The pilot will run seasonally, with the library collecting feedback before deciding whether to expand the program to more locations across Barrie.
